Series Originator and Producer: Susan Hammond
Classical Kids recordings combine music and drama to help children learn about famous composers, their music, and some history of the times. These biographical and/or fantastical dramas allow kids to unleash their curiosity and imagination as they embark on a journey that takes them around the world and back in time. Each musical story is underscored by context-relevant selections of the featured composer's musical works, and tells a poignant story that revolves around children listeners can really relate to, their discoveries, and interactions with other well-developed characters. Classical Kids recordings are at once elaborate and simple and thus provide enjoyable listening for the whole family.
With so many children's products relying heavily on visual stimuli, Classical Kids recordings provide a fresh change of pace. Kids will listen instead of watch, sparking their imaginations as they instinctively visualize the story in their minds. These recordings appeal to children of all ages, and many a parent as well!
In Mozart's Magic Fantasy, a young girl named Sara finds herself in the midst of the fairy tale adventure of Mozart's great opera The Magic Flute. Prince Tamino needs her help, and Sara meets with a dragon who is supposed to guard the kingdom, but is not as fierce as he is expected to be! With help from the talking dragon, Sara sets out to help the prince find his princess who is in danger. It seems that the princess Pamina has been taken by a cruel sorcerer, and her mother, the intimidating Queen of the Night, has declared war on Sarastro, the magician. Along the way, Sara meets up with some wonderful characters, such as a birdcatcher named Papageno who joins the group on their mission. With a magical flute and bells to guide them, they manage to rescue Pamina, and find love for Papageno.
As the story unfolds, this delightful CD features Mozart's arias with child-appropriate verse. The music and story are woven together seamlessly. Children are easily mesmerized by the story line that is rife with humor, magic, and compelling drama. Their naturally receptive ears soak up the music of Mozart as they follow the adventures of the unlikely heroine Sara.
This CD confirms my opinion that all families should own at least one Classical Kids recording. This particular title is less informative than Beethoven Lives Upstairs (my personal favorite), though more playful. There is an underlying theme of the power of love in our lives. This CD/cassette is perfect for travel time or lazy/rainy afternoons.
