The Magic Flute, a renowned opera composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is a masterpiece that has captivated audiences for centuries. The orchestra is a vital component of this enchanting musical experience, as it adds depth, emotion, and grandeur to the performances. Comprised of a diverse array of instruments, the orchestra plays a crucial role in bringing the story and characters to life. From the powerful blasts of the brass section to the delicate melodies of the strings, each instrument contributes to the overall harmony and ambiance of the opera. The conductor, often positioned at the center of the orchestra, plays a pivotal role in guiding the musicians throughout the performance. Through precise gestures and movements, the conductor ensures that each section and instrument is coordinated and in sync.
The perfect primer to introduce children to classical music.
Its abridged English-language version, which returns in December 2013 as the company s annual holiday presentation for families, inaugurated the Met s Live in HD series of performance transmissions to movie theaters around the world in 2006. Its abridged English-language version, which returns in December 2013 as the company s annual holiday presentation for families, inaugurated the Met s Live in HD series of performance transmissions to movie theaters around the world in 2006.
Through precise gestures and movements, the conductor ensures that each section and instrument is coordinated and in sync. This orchestral unity is essential in capturing the essence of Mozart's composition. The story of The Magic Flute follows the adventures of Prince Tamino as he embarks on a journey to rescue Princess Pamina from the clutches of the evil Sarastro.
Music Book Review: The Story Orchestra -The Magic Flute
This month’s Music Book Review is another in the fantastic Story Orchestra series of books. I love this series, which takes famous pieces of classical music – some opera, some ballet, some orchestral music – and through either telling the story behind the opera or ballet, or writing a story to go along with the music, and combining that, Jennifer Courtney-Tickle’s beautiful illustrations and excerpt from the piece that each book is based on, the books bring the music to life for young readers. You can read my previous reviews here:
The very first page of the book gives you an introduction to the story:
Once upon a time, the world was split into two lands. One land was ruled by the sun and the other, the moon. After a disagreement, they fought day after day, year after year. This was the way of the world, until a curious prince became lost in the mountains that separated these two kingdoms.
The tale of The Magic Flute is brought to life in this lovely sound book. Based on Mozart’s opera of the same name, the book has excerpts of Mozart’s music throughout the book which you can hear by pressing the musical note on the page.
At the end of the story, the book gives you a glossary defining some of the terms used either within the story itself or the description of each of the musical excerpts on the following page that your children may not be familiar with, such as “aria”, “melisma” and “opera”. There is also a very short biography of the composer along with a very brief introduction to the opera itself and a little historical context about the times when Mozart wrote this opera. Finally, you can hear all of the different excerpts from The Magic Flute in one place on the final page of the book. For each excerpt, there is a short description of the music as well as information about where in the opera you can find this particular excerpt.
The Magic Flute is a great introduction to opera for children with fun characters like Papageno and Papagena, the fairy tale story of a prince going on a quest to rescue a princess, and of course as in every good fairy tale, good triumphs over evil- or peace over war. Once you have read this book with your children you might want to consider listening to or even seeing the opera itself. Look out for a production, they are often on. Or checkout this version online/on TV:
Would your child enjoy this book? Well as always, you know your child best and the sorts of stories they enjoy. I don’t think the book is particularly frightening, although there are references to two lands being at war with each other, and needing to work out their differences to live in harmony with each other, so you may feel that is a bit much for very small children. In terms of understanding the story, I would say that depending on whether you are reading this to your child, or they are reading it for themselves, this is a great book for children aged 5 to 8. Of course with buttons to press to listen to the music, that is always a winner in my house with both children. And the buttons are quite light touch as well, meaning it is easy for quite young children to press them and get the music to play.
At the time of writing this book is available on Amazon priced at £13.99, but be aware that prices on Amazon do go up and down depending on availability. I have also seen this book available to buy in our local Waterstones and I am sure it is available from other good retailers.
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Throughout the opera, the orchestra underscores the emotions and actions of the characters, creating a vibrant and immersive experience for the audience. The orchestra skillfully amplifies the dramatic moments in the opera, such as the iconic Queen of the Night aria, where the powerful vocals are accompanied by the bold and intense sound of the orchestra. In contrast, the orchestra also sets the scene for more delicate and tender moments, such as the enchanting Papageno-Papagena duet. Furthermore, Mozart's composition brilliantly incorporates various musical styles and influences. The orchestra effortlessly transitions from lively and uplifting melodies to poignant and introspective passages. This musical versatility further enhances the overall narrative of the opera. Overall, the orchestra in The Magic Flute plays a vital role in immersing the audience in the enchanting world of Mozart's masterpiece. Through its skillful execution and interpretation of the composer's vision, the orchestra adds depth, emotion, and magic to this timeless opera..
Reviews for "The Story Orchestra: The Magic Flute - A Magical Musical Experience for Young and Old"
1. Sarah - 2 stars
I was really disappointed with "The Stort Orchestra The Magic Flite". The storyline was confusing and hard to follow, and the characters were one-dimensional. The music didn't fit well with the scenes, and the whole production felt disjointed and jarring. I usually enjoy musicals, but this one just didn't do it for me. I wouldn't recommend it.
2. John - 1 star
I couldn't wait for "The Stort Orchestra The Magic Flite" to end. The acting was amateurish, and the singing was off-pitch and grating. The set design and costumes were lackluster, and the whole production felt cheap and rushed. The story lacked depth and failed to engage me emotionally. I wouldn't waste my time or money on this show again.
3. Emily - 2 stars
I had high expectations for "The Stort Orchestra The Magic Flite" based on the reviews I had seen, but unfortunately, it fell flat for me. The pacing was slow, and the dialogue was uninspiring. The performances lacked charisma, and the chemistry between the actors was non-existent. The songs were forgettable, and I found myself losing interest halfway through. Overall, I was left unimpressed by this production.