ONCE UPON A TUNE

Peter & The Wolf

Before the narrator tells us the wolf is approaching, the horns have already given him away.

In Sergei Prokofiev’s beloved musical tale, Peter & The Wolf, every character has its own orchestral voice. The UAE National Orchestra brings the story to life as part of its Once Upon a Tune family series, for children aged 5 to 10 and their families.

As Peter’s adventure unfolds, young listeners discover the instruments of the Orchestra through character, movement and suspense, learning how melody, rhythm and sound can tell a story. The experience also includes a special “Meet the Conductor” section, giving children the chance to get closer to the Orchestra and discover what happens behind the baton.

Whether experiencing an orchestra for the first time or returning with their families, children are invited to listen, imagine and discover what comes next.

UAE National Orchestra

The UAE National Orchestra (UAENO) is the official national orchestra of the United Arab Emirates, giving musical expression to the country's identity, heritage and ambition. It is led by Chairperson Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, alongside Managing Director Sheikha Alia bint Khalid Al Qassimi.

Rooted in heritage and tradition, and open to the world, the Orchestra brings Arabic and Western instruments into one ensemble of 70 musicians, supported by a choir of 30 singers. Its programmes bring established repertoire into conversation with new work, while giving composers and musicians space to shape an orchestral voice that proudly reflects the UAE.

At its heart is the shared experience of live music, inviting audiences of all ages and backgrounds to hear familiar works afresh, discover unexpected sounds and feel the energy of live performance. Its inaugural season brought together original compositions, reimagined classics, and world-renowned artists.

Season Two, Symphony On, carries that sentiment forward. Through new commissions, partnerships, training and mentorship programmes, UAENO is bringing Emirati stories and new sounds to the stage while developing the next generation of artists; so the music plays on for generations.