It’s animal magnetism at full force

PETER AND THE WOLF Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra Marko Letonja, conductor Ryk Goddard, narrator Federation Concert Hall

ABUZZof anticipation surrounded the capacity audience of children and families attending the second of three family-oriented concerts programmed this year.

All became quiet as the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra began Strauss’s Die Fledermaus Overture. Conductor Marko Letonja held charge, bringing precision to a lively performance highlighting oboe and flute.

Ryk Goddard amused the crowd as he pranced across the stage cloaked as a golden bat, cheekily attempting to take over the conducting role.

The remainder of the animalthemed concert continued in conventional style with Serov’s I Danced with a Gnat. Double basses starred in Rhinoceros Tango, from Matthew Hindson’s Dangerous Creatures suite.

Tahnee van Herk (bassoon) took centre stage for 16 Legs, an original piece portraying two Tasmanian cave spiders.

In Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf Goddard excelled as narrator, his expressive gestures and clear enunciation complementing the signature tunes.

Peter was represented by a melody distinctly articulated by strings. Solo instruments — horn, bassoon, flute, oboe, clarinet, timpani and bass drum — effectively conveyed other characters. Their interpretation would have been enhanced for new listeners if the soloists were identified and visible as they played their entries.

These concertgoers of the future were extremely attentive, confirming the appeal of live music.