PETER AND THE WOLF

Narrator Yadu sets up the classic story by introducing the characters and the individual musical themes that represent each one. His voice has an appealing storytelling quality but is not intrusive. The rich music itself, played by the London Philharmonic, directed by Stephen Simon, takes center stage. Six additional tracks offer such treats as a Russian version of the music and Stephen Simon's descriptions of the way the musical themes and techniques work. Further, Simon's wife, Bonnie, who created the Concerts for Young People at the Kennedy Center, precisely enunciates the biography of the composer, with appropriately chosen classical music in the background. The entire production shows a clear understanding of both children and music. S.W. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]