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The Soviet Storyteller

Kate Molleson explores Prokofiev’s early life, where fairytales and family theatricals shaped a future storyteller.

Kate Molleson introduces Sergey Prokofiev, a composer whose music brims with imagination. Today, we follow his childhood in rural Ukraine, his first operatic experiments, and the teachers who nurtured his creative spark. From homegrown plays to bold juvenile operas, Prokofiev’s early years reveal a mind enchanted by stories – a thread that unfolds throughout his life.

Troika (from Lieutenant Kijé Suite, Op. 60)
National Youth Orchestra of Wales
Owain Arwel Hughes, conductor

Cinderella Suite, Op. 87
Olli Mustonen, piano

The Winter Bonfire, Op. 122: IV-VIII
New London Orchestra
Ronald Corp, conductor

Music for Children, Op. 65: Nos. 1-9
Denis Kozhukhin, piano

Peter and the Wolf, Op. 67: 'The Story Begins' to 'The Duck is Caught'
Philadelphia Orchestra
David Bowie, narrator
Eugene Ormandy, conductor

Produced by Ellie Ajao for BBC Audio Wales and West.

2 days left to listen

59 minutes

Last on

Mon 15 Dec 202516:00

Music Played

  • Sergey Prokofiev

    Troika

    Orchestra: National Youth Orchestra of Wales. Conductor: Owain Arwel Hughes.
    • QUARTZ : QTZ-2035.
    • QUARTZ.
    • 2.
  • Sergey Prokofiev

    3 Pieces from 'Cinderella' Op 95

    Performer: Olli Mustonen.
    • ONDINE : ODE-1060-2.
    • ONDINE.
    • 1.
  • Sergey Prokofiev

    Winter Bonfire, Op 122 (Nos 4-8)

    Orchestra: New London Orchestra. Conductor: Ronald Corp.
    • HYPERION : CDA-66499.
    • HYPERION.
    • 4.
  • Sergey Prokofiev

    Music for Children, Op 65 (Nos 1-9)

    Performer: Denis Kozhukhin.
    • PENTATONE : PTC-5187406.
    • PENTATONE.
    • 1.
  • Sergey Prokofiev

    Peter and the Wolf, Op 67 (excerpt)

    Orchestra: Philadelphia Orchestra. Conductor: Eugene Ormandy. Narrator: David Bowie.
    • RCA : GD-60878.
    • RCA.
    • 2.

Broadcast

  • Mon 15 Dec 202516:00

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