Summer Music Festival at Colorado College

C A R N I V A L    O F    T H E    A N I M A L S  

 

Carnival of the Animals by Camille Saint-Saens was the orchestra piece played by Colorado College Summer Festival musicians who came from over the world to attend.  Local students, (my students from Bemis School of Art !!!), had the distinct honor to create illustrations for this amazing children’s concert.  Take a look at their work, and also see photographs of the Ormao Company student dancers who accompanied the orchestra.  It was a magnificent presentation of many creative elements.

At the beginning of the concert, the narrator took time to introduce the instruments to the audience.  It was informative and gave the children attending an opportunity to become familiar with the make-up of an orchestra.

On my way into the auditorium, I ran into a student…hi there!!

My daughter and grandson attended also.

It was his first ever concert, so he wore ear coverings just in case the music was too loud…he loved every minute of it!

From beginning to end, the artwork mesmerized the audience.  Many people commented on how wonderful the illustrations were and all of the CC staff was impressed with the student work.  Take a look at the cast of carnival characters.

The Royal March of the Lion

Hens and Cockerels

Wild Donkeys

Tortoise

Kangaroos

Aquarium

People With Long Ears

The Cuckoo in the middle of the wood

Aviary

Pianist

Fossils

The Swan

Originally a musical composition, text was added to create an accompanying narrative.  When Saint Saens wrote the music for Carnival of the Animals, he was inspired by the antics of his colorful friends, and how their actions reminded him of animals.  The CC Music Festival team created a clever union of illustration, dance, and music.

Kudos to my students who did such an amazing job with their illustrations!!  I am also grateful for the support from their families who brought them to class each week and also thankful to Colorado College, and the generous donors who make the Summer Music Festival possible.  It happens every year so stay tuned for what is coming up for 2023.  Thanks for stopping by my blog, and I welcome your comments.