SOLAR WINDS FAMILY CONCERTS

Solar Winds’ family concerts are an ideal way to introduce children to the joy and excitement of live classical performances. These festive programs combine music, story telling, and audience participation in a fun and informal concert setting. Every member of the family will find something to spark the imagination.

The centerpiece of each concert is a full musical story narrated by Guy Urban. Programs also feature amusing and informative introductions to each of the instruments, interactive musical games, and instrument “petting zoos”, as well as performances of familiar tunes and music of the great composers.

Peter and the Wolf
The characters come to life when Guy Urban and Solar Winds perform Peterand the Wolf. All the familiar themes and old friends will be there to delight you – the delicate bird, the fussy duck, the sly cat, the stern grandfather, and of course there’s Peter, the boy who is certainly not afraid of wolves. Arranged for woodwind quintet and narrator by Boston composer, Michael Weinstein, this unique rendition of Prokofiev’s classic musical fable is an audience favorite. It’s an ideal opportunity for kids to learn about the instruments of the orchestra and the joys of attending live concerts.
Listen to: Peter & the Wolf 

The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship
The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship is an enchanting musical version of the old Russian folk tale written for Solar Winds by award winning composer, John Kusiak. The story features Ivan, a brave and resourceful lad who leaves home in search of a mysterious flying ship in order to win the hand of the beautiful daughter of the czar. Along the way, he meets the most eccentric and magical cast of characters this side of Hogwarts. It’s a delightful combination of story and music that will appeal to audiences of all ages.
Listen to:  Fool of the World

Ferdinand the Bull
The little bull who preferred smelling flowers to fighting matadors comes to musical life in this evocative setting of Munro Leaf’s TheStory of Ferdinand. Mark Fish’s score captures the fury of the bull ring, the frenzy of the crowd, and – of course – the tranquility of Ferdinand’s favorite cork tree. Performed with a slide show of Robert Lawson’s beloved illustrations, Ferdinand the Bull is a delightful musical event.

Enjoy both Peter and the Wolf and The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship on CD, available by mail and at our performances for $15.

Solar Winds collaborated with Prometheus Dance  in a performance of John Kusiak's the Fool of the World and the Flying Ship.

Puppets and costumes made by Julia and Elizabeth Rocha