A Rep Reading

Exquisite paintings by Catherine Hyde, illustrator of another personal favorite picture book, The Princess' Blankets, grace this retelling of the Russian folktalke, the Firebird, by Saviour Pirotta. There is so much to like about this book. Published in honor of the 100th anniversary of the Russian ballet, the Igor Stravinsky music score to the ballet has been a signature favorite of mine, since first recorded by the Atlanta Symphony in 1978. This recording of The Firebird under the Telarc label, made the ASO the first American orchestra to make a digital recording intended for commercial release. I have never been able to listen to the final chords of this work without being totally astounded by the sound. Oftentimes in publishing, there have been very few editions of picture books to accompany popular ballets or works of music. As a musician, and a member of the publishing community, I have experienced the disappointment of many, looking for books to accompany musical experiences. Thank goodness there is this handsome volume of The Firebird, and I highly recommend it to all who love folktales, legends, ballets, art and beautiful music.