Prokofiev: Peter And The Wolf

More importantly, the children I have played it to have also enjoyed it - although the 'Australianisms' were strange to them (We adults can enjoy them!), the sheer enthusiasm of the 'narrators' puts across a love of the underlying music. As to the orchestra - good playing serving the composers' purpose and a good clear recording.

Jolly good fun, and repeatable too.


Great. Every child should have a copy and every school too!   January 6, 2004
 24 out of 24 found this review helpful

I bought this for my 3-year old son who absolutely loves the Disney mini-classic VHS of the same name. I was slightly concerned that Dame Edna was the narrator incase the comedy detracted from the 'scaryness' of the story (which is half its appeal) and the educational aspect of the Orchestra. I needn't have worried as the Dame does a great job. Although her voice is condecending (on purpose) to adults, it is friendly and almost 'cuddly' to children. My son listened to the CD whilst playing in his bed-room and ran and hid his head under the bedclothes, in mock fright, when the wolf's music came on. It was a joy to witness. I am sure this score has done a lot to encourage children to either listen to or take up classical music as a hobby. That's why every Infant school should have a copy. Failing this, get one for your child. You also get Babar the Elephant and the sections of the Orchestra. At this price, it's an absolute bargain!


A delight for all ages   January 7, 2002
 39 out of 39 found this review helpful

I ordered this CD as much for Dame Edna's narration as for the musical selection, but this turns out to be a real all-round delight. Technically and musically, it is by far the most sparkling rendition of Peter and the Wolf that I've ever heard. And, although it is often grouped on recordings with Britten's Young Person's Guide, Poulenc's Babar is less well known and often overlooked. A good selection, brilliantly executed. The best tribute comes from my three-year-old son, who asks to hear it every day.


Excellent introduction to classical music for children   December 3, 2001
 32 out of 32 found this review helpful

The best way to introduce children to classical music is to make it fun and interesting. This CD manages this in two ways: by narrating the story along with the music and by highlighting the sounds made by particular instruments. I'm not a great Dame Edna Everage fan, but his/her narration is most fitting. My 6 year old daughter has several of the Naxos "narrated for children" stories and this is by far her favourite.