The Flying Orchestra

About the Book

The Flying Orchestra by Clare McFadden is a beautifully illustrated picture book that explores the idea that music can be found throughout everyday life. When the wind becomes strong enough to blow the angels from the top of City Hall, the mysterious Flying Orchestra comes into town and begins playing music for people during important moments.

The orchestra plays different kinds of music for different experiences: a violin solo for someone who has missed a train, an airport symphony for someone waiting to return home, and music for moments of happiness, sadness, worry and celebration.

Discovering the Music Around Us

Through poetic storytelling and imaginative illustrations, Clare McFadden invites children and adults to think about how music connects with emotions and memories. The book introduces musical ideas such as the violin solo, symphony, concerto and sonata while encouraging readers to notice the sounds and feelings that accompany everyday experiences.

The Flying Orchestra won the 2011 Children's Book Council of Australia Crichton Award for illustration and was also adapted for the stage.

Who Is It For?

This picture book is suitable for young children and families who enjoy imaginative stories, music, art and books that encourage discussion about emotions and everyday experiences.

Key Features

Children's picture book; music and emotions; imaginative storytelling; beautifully illustrated artwork; violin, symphony, concerto and sonata; creativity and imagination; Australian children's literature; winner of the 2011 CBCA Crichton Award.

Product Details

Author and Illustrator: Clare McFadden; Title: The Flying Orchestra; Publisher: University of Queensland Press; ISBN: 9780702249297; Format: Paperback; Pages: 40; Publication Date: 5 February 2019; Language: English; Genre: Children's Picture Book.

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