Richard Perlmutter insists that his music isn't meant to be educational. If there is a lesson, it is simply "music is wonderful."

For the thousands of parents and teachers who have bought his CDs, the music has a lot more to say. To them, his "singing symphonies" provide a perfect way to introduce children to classical music. The CDs have become a valuable resource in classrooms across the country.

Perlmutter's lyrical style is influenced by Cole Porter and Broadway show-tune writers.

His latest album, "Beethoven's Wig 2: More Sing Along Symphonies," was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2005 in the Best Musical Album for Children category.

The album follows his first Grammy-nominated album, "Beethoven's Wig."

In both albums, Perlmutter wrote lyrics that he sings to famous classical compositions.

The lyrics are catchy and funny and usually have something to do with the original piece or its composer, such as "Beethoven's Wig," sung to Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 in C minor.

"I think classical music is one of the greatest achievements of Western civilization," Perlmutter said.