SOLAR WINDS FAMILY CONCERTS

The 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, sing-alongs and musical games in a fun and informal concert setting. Every member of the family will find something to spark the imagination.

Joined by narrator Victor Cockburn, one of Boston’s premier children’s entertainers, Solar Winds has captivated young audiences with family programs presented in concert halls, schools, religious institutions and other venues throughout New England since 1999. The centerpiece of each concert is a full musical story with narration, such as Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf” or John Kusiak’s “The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship.” Programs also feature amusing and informative introductions to each of the instruments of the woodwind quintet, songs and sing-alongs with Victor Cockburn, interactive musical games showing how music is composed and arranged and how the musicians interact with each other, as well as performances of familiar tunes and music of the great composers.

Listen to: Peter & the Wolf and Fool of the World

Peter and the Wolf

The characters come to life when Victor Cockburn and Solar Winds perform “Peter and 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 leading Boston composer, Michael Weinstein, this unique rendition of Prokofiev’s classic musical fable has become a favorite with audiences of all ages. It’s an ideal opportunity for kids to learn about the instruments of the orchestra and the joys of attending live concerts.

The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship

Action, adventure, romance, exciting chases, heroes with super powers, impossible quests, all rolled together with some of the most beautiful and lively music you’re likely to hear this year Is it the newest Harry Potter? Spiderman? James Bond?

None of the above It’s “The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship.” This enchanting musical version of the old Russian folk tale was 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 and 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 Hogwart’s. It’s a delightful combination of story and music that will appeal to audiences of all ages.

Both “Peter and the Wolf” and “The Fool of the World and the Flying Ship” are available on a CD by Victor Cockburn and Solar Winds, avaliable by mail and at our performances for $15.

Listen to: Peter & the Wolf and Fool of the World