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.
Rating: 
