Thomas Tapper (28 January 1864 – 24 February 1958) was a musician, composer, lecturer, writer, and editor, born in Canton, Massachusetts and studied music at the American College of Musicians. He wrote many books on music, mostly for children and young adults. His most famous being Lives of Great Composers picture book series.

Thomas Tapper's "Music Talks with Children" is a delightful exploration of music tailored for young readers. The book offers insights into the world of music, its history, and its significance. Through engaging discussions and narratives, Tapper introduces children to the wonders of music, fostering an appreciation for the art form and encouraging a deeper understanding of musical study.

Thomas Tapper (28 January 1864 - 24 February 1958) was a musician, composer, lecturer, writer, and editor, born in Canton, Massachusetts and studied music at the American College of Musicians. He wrote many books on music, mostly for children and young adults. His most famous being Lives of Great Composers picture book series. He also wrote the First Year Series for musical instruction, which included First Year Musical Theory, First Year Counterpoint, First Year Harmony, Second Year harmony, First Year Analysis, and First Year Melody Writing. He was the editor of "The Musician," and promoted rural music and community music. Tapper also promoted rote learning in the rote-note controversy of the late 19th Century music education.

A discussion of the necessity of training young children to appreciate music and selecting the proper music to use for this instruction.

"Our former book, 'Music appreciation for little children.' was designed to present music to children of the first three grades, but it has seemed wise to incorporate into one volume the entire work for the elementary schools."- Foreword, signed: Francis Elliott Clark.