This recording of Sergei Prokofiev’s popular Peter and the Wolf – captured live in a performance by the Los Angeles Philharmonic conducted by Gustavo Dudamel at the iconic Hollywood Bowl – highlights the Russian composer’s enormous gift for colorful storytelling.

This magical and dramatic account of the classic tale – brilliantly narrated by Oscar®-, Emmy®-, and two-time Tony®-winning actress and producer Viola Davis – marked a joyous return to live music after lengthy lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Without fuss or exaggeration,” wrote the Los Angeles Times, “the celebrated actress was on mark with a clever subtle edge … For Dudamel, every instrument, not just the flute/bird, clarinet/cat, bassoon/grandfather, became a living being.”