CBSO's Notelets 'On Safari' Family Concert

Keeping a collection of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 years and their families entertained and happy for a few hours can be a tricky task. But the CBSO's Notelets concerts manage it every time. Today's 'On Safari' theme was winning before the music began as children were asked to make binoculars for animal spotting during the show. There were lots of crafting materials available and the task was clearly explained. Children, parents and grandparents were all kept busy. This was provided for free an hour before the show began as part of the ticket price.

What my three year old wanted to know though was when does the music start? There is something extra special about experiencing a live music performance. It's a fantastic experience for children and 'grown ups' as the CBSO centre allows you to be close to the musicians. The musicians themselves are obviously immensely talented but are also friendly and engaged with the young audience during and after the show.

The music included a variety of pieces all on the animal theme. Each piece had its own twist and way of keeping the children entertained. My whole family loved hearing the 'Flight of the Bumble Bee' but my three old particularly appreciated the flautist donning his bumble bee costume and buzzing around. Another favourite was 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight' where the lights were off and the room was illuminated by finger lights that the adults had been provided with in advance. The children were enthralled.

The different 'twist' that each piece has is explained by Jane Wright who brilliantly presents the show. She got the children dancing, marching, freezing and pretending to be different animals. Jane also read out the story of "The Monkey with the Bright Blue Bottom.' by Steve Smallman which is a delightfully amusing tale of a cheeky monkey with a paint bush who gets his comeuppance at the end of the book.

An unexpected bonus was that we were seated next to a celebrity during the show. Steve Smallman was in the audience and available to sign copies of his book after the show. My girls were very keen to do this our copy of 'The Monkey with the Bright Blue Bottom' will be a great reminder of the show.

Special thanks to CBSO for inviting us along to review the show.

Booking is already open for the next Notelets concert 'Christmas Party' on 9th and 10th December 2022

https://cbso.co.uk/take-part/families

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