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"What a fabulous CD! Very fun story and lovely music! My Daughter loves it! I highly recommend it" - April 27, 2006
J. Finney, Amazon Customer
"Juanita the Spanish Lobster is a dazzling "package" with an array of gifts: an unusual story, a talented orchestra, intriguing information, a sing-along opportunity, and an important "lesson" to ponder."
Parents' Choice Foundation
"This CD is a happy surprise. This musical story is narrated by Yadu (a.k.a Dr. Czynski, the original narrator for the "Stories in Music" concerts at the Kennedy Center) with the London Philharmonic Orchestra providing a backdrop for this tale of Lobster love and longing. In addition to funny narration and catchy song-stories (which you will find yourself humming), this production includes a wealth of information about the music and the performers. There's also a track in which aspiring youngsters can be lead singers of "O Juanita," accompanied by the orchestra. This delightfully engaging production will appeal to a variety of ages and educate children on numerous levels while inviting them to laugh and move with the music."
AudioFile Magazine
"The production is beautifully orchestrated by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, with Stephen Simon (who is also the producer) conducting. Yadu (aka Dr. Konrad Czynski of Minnesota State University- Moorhead) narrates the story with vigor and sings the songs flawlessly. Other tracks include information about the story and the music, and a delightful early rock-style song, "O Juanita a la Elvis," sung by James Shaffran & the Three Crustaceans Shaffran mimics Elvis Presley's voice perfectly. A final track features karaoke-style background music and singers, so that children (or parents) can sign "O Juanita a la Elvis." The booklet contains information about the production, games and lyrics. A welcome addition for most libraries."
School Library Journal
"WORTH A LISTEN - Conductor Stephen Simon and narrator Yadu continue the Magic Maestro Music™ series of fun and informative introductions to symphonic music - and other styles. The Johnny Morris story of Juanita helps introduce bel canto opera, flamenco and Elvis Presley-style rock-in-roll. Yes, Juanita is a rock lobster."
Washington Post
"Conductor Stephen Simon and executive producer Bonnie Ward Simon ... have a hit with their symphonic storytelling series, Stories in Music™. In this tale, narrated by Yadu and featuring flamenco and bel canto opera music from British composer David Haslam, Juanita wants more excitement than her underwater life has to offer and heads to land for adventure. This great gift for your kids includes a Magic Maestro Music™ program book with more information and activities."
Washington Parent
"LAND HO? OH NO! - Spanish flamenco and bel canto opera styles combine in this delightfully silly lobster tale. Hear how crabby Juanita became a content crustacean - and how her creators blended various musical elements and ideas to concoct this fun, musical fable. "
MetroParent
"Symphonic storytelling has never been as fun as with this delightfully entertaining tale about a lady lobster who wants to go to the land. The London Philharmonic Orchestra, with conductor Stephen Simon and narrator Yadu, blend perfectly to bring out the story´s themes of hopes, dreams and determination. British composer David Haslam´s passionate and spirited flamenco and bel canto opera music makes Juanita pure entertainment for the entire family."
ToyDirectory.com
"A combination of beautiful music with an entertaining and fun story. The London Philharmonic Orchestra, conductor Stephen Simon and narrator Yadu blend perflectly to bring out the story's themes of hopes, dreams and determination."
"CONGRATULATIONS! It is not often that a children's CD comes along that combines the magic of a great story, great narrating, and great music.... A wonderful addition
to any family collection for home or car!"
Susan Hammond, Classical Kids
"The Simon's have created an inspired blend of music, storytelling, and just plain fun! It's the next step in growing an enthusiastic generation of young music lovers."
Marilyn Cooley, WETA-FM |