In his prolific career, Alan Ridout (1934-1996) composed a total of fifteen operas (including several for children), eight symphonies, twenty-five concertos for various instruments, eight string quartets and numerous shorter orchestral, choral and instrumental pieces. This CD comprises an entertaining selection of fairy tales and poems, skillfully set to music, to appeal to listeners of all ages.

Includes previously unrecorded and unpublished works from the Ridout Archive.

A useful and informative introduction to the sound of string instruments for younger listeners.

Narrated by veteran broadcaster, Richard Baker, who has had a long association with these works.

Expertly played by the Coull Quartet, renowned for their many recordings of British music.