Sergei Prokofiev's childlike spirit is clearly reflected in his music for young listeners. He viewed life as a grand adventure, full of surprises around every corner. For him, it was essential to serve humanity through his music and to offer them a bright future, free from ideological constraints. His works radiate vitality and vibrant color, reflecting his childlike hope and joy, even into old age.
Prokofiev composed several pieces for children, including "The Ugly Duckling" and "Tales of the Old Grandmother." In the 1930s, inspired by the Soviet ideal of writing for the youth, he composed music specifically for children. In 1935, he created "Music for Children," a collection of twelve simple piano pieces, which he later arranged into the orchestral suite "A Summer's Day."
Prokofiev composed several pieces for children, including "The Ugly Duckling" and "Tales of the Old Grandmother." A particularly significant work is the symphonic fairy tale "Peter and the Wolf," composed in 1936, which was intended to introduce children to the various timbres of an orchestra. The initiative for this piece came from Natalia Satz, who encouraged Prokofiev to compose it. The premiere of the work was a worldwide success.
Prokofiev's other works for children include "Three Children's Songs," the ballet fairy tale "Cinderella," and the "Children's Suite Winter Campfire." His compositions are deeply rooted in Russian tradition and convey a childlike enthusiasm, as can also be heard in pieces such as "On Peace Watch" and "The Moon Sails Over the Meadows."