Describes the orchestra and includes information on composers, instruments, and the conductor.

Have you ever seen an orchestra perform and wondered about all those different instruments? In this fact-filled, entertaining picture book, Bruce Koscielniak gives us a lively look at the history of the orchestra and the instruments in it. From the “tooter, strings, and beaters” of the 1600s to the keyboard synthesizers of today, this playful exploration follows the development and trends of musical instruments over the last four hundred years. A perfect and joyous celebration for anyone who loves music.

Eye-catching illustrations, engaging text and delightful musical selections on the accompanying 70-minute CD lead children ages 8 to 12 (and parents, too!) on an exciting and educational tour through the instruments and music of the orchestra. Illustrated in exquisite and colourful detail with over 100 original drawings and photographs, this package is a fun and exciting musical journey for children. the engaging text is broken into three sections: an introduction to each instrument of the orchestra from the cello to the timpani; the stories of famous composers from Bach to Stravinsky; and an explanation of different musical styles from Baroque to Modern. Each step of the way, children can listen to actual musical examples of what they are learning about. Young readers will hear the sound of an actual violin as they study the instrument and enjoy the playful tune of a Mozart minuet as they read about the composer's precocious exploits as a child.

Discover the spellbinding magic of In the Hall of The Mountain King in this musical retelling of Peer Gynt—push the button on each beautiful scene to hear the vivid sound of an orchestra playing from Grieg’s score. This tale of a boy’s adventure through the valleys and mountains of the Norwegian countryside begins at a wedding feast far, far away. Peer Gynt is bored and he’s longing for adventure. After sneaking off from the party, he finds himself at a peaceful lake where he meets some dairy people. When he lies about his escapades riding reindeer through the sky, they dare him to go to the lair of the Mountain King, the king of the trolls. The king’s halls are dark and spooky, and it isn’t long before Peer is captured. How will he escape? And will he learn the importance of humility and the value of friends? As you and your little one journey through the magical scenes, you will press the buttons to hear 10 excerpts from the score. Readers should press firmly on the pages to activate the sounds, encouraging interactive learning and introducing children to this beautiful piece of music. At the back of the book, find a short biography of the composer, Edvard Grieg, with details about his composition of Peer Gynt. Next to this, you can replay the musical excerpts and, for each of them, read a discussion of the instruments, rhythms, and musical techniques that make them so powerful. A glossary defines musical terms. The Story Orchestra series brings classical music to life for children through gorgeously illustrated retellings of classic ballet, opera, and program music stories paired with 10-second sound clips of orchestras playing from their musical scores. Also available from the Story Orchestra series: The Magic Flute, I Can Play (vol 1), Carnival of the Animals, The Sleeping Beauty, The Nutcracker, and Four Seasons in One Day. Manufacturer’s note: please pull the white tab out of the back of the book before use. Sound buttons require a firm push in the exact location to work, which may be hard for young children. All sound clips are 10 seconds long. The perfect primer to introduce children to classical music.