The Tomten and the Fox - A Musical Tale for Children

THE PERFECT HOLIDAY STORY...

Mark D. Petering brings new meaning to this classic Scandinavian folktale told by the author of Pippi Longstocking, Astrid Lindgren. The setting is a cozy farmhouse on a cold winter's night...the characters are the Tomten, a kindly troll who watches over the farm, and a hungry fox who is looking for a tasty dinner at the henhouse! Petering skillfully weaves melodies together that engage young audiences to think about the most important theme of the holiday season - sharing.

After we experience the Tomten's warm, caring spirit towards the children and the farm animals, we see the Tomten confront the fox outside of the chicken coop in a just, but loving manner by sharing his porridge with this hungry creature. Petering ennobles this act of kindness with a stunning arrangement of the classic Christmas hymn, Of the Father's Love Begotten.

...THIS MUSIC IS CERTAIN TO LEAVE YOUR AUDIENCE WITH THE TRUE MEANING OF THE SEASON - THE IMPORTANCE OF SHARING.

Originally premiered as a chamber work at the Washington Island Music Festival under Mr. Stephen Colburn, Petering arranged the work for orchestra at the request of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra League with support from the Suzanne and Richard Pieper Family Foundation. Upon receiving a very enthusiastic reception from audience and performers alike, he was invited to compose more music for the symphony's biannual children's concert series.

The Tomten and the Fox is now available on Petering Records' The Tomten and the Fox and more! New Classical Music for Children by Mark Petering. Click to hear just a few of the many wonderful themes composed by Mr. Petering for this story.

Performances below feature the Washington Island Music Festival Chamber Orchestra.

The Tomten & The Tomten and the Fox Š 1961 Astrid Lindren - published by Sandcastle Books