Peter & the Wolf

PreS-Gr 3—Grammy Award-winner Jim Dale artfully narrates the beloved tale of young Peter and his animal friends, and introduces a new generation to a story that has delighted audiences for three-quarters of a century. Written by Sergei Prokofiev, the story helps children become familiar with some of the instruments in the orchestra, while spinning a harrowing tale. Unlike other versions that have changed the ending or added narration, this presentation is more faithful to the original composition. The recording begins by introducing the characters and the instruments that will represent them. Young Peter ventures out beyond the garden gate, despite his grandfather's warnings about the vicious wolf living in the woods. Grandfather soon brings him back home, but then disaster strikes and the wolf gobbles up duck. Peter once again sneaks out and, with the help of his friends, cat and bird, captures the wolf with a very clever trick. Hunters who come out of the woods want to shoot the wolf, but Peter convinces them to take him to the zoo. Everyone then proceeds to the zoo, with the duck, still alive, quacking inside the wolf's belly! The music is superbly performed by the Seattle Symphony. A different instrument portrays each character and Jim Dale is a master of narration. He gives each character a distinct voice, telling Peter's tale with wit and great suspense. A wonderful introduction to the orchestra, and a delightful classic tale.—MaryAnn Karre, Horace Mann and Thomas Jefferson Elementary Schools, Binghamton, NY