Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra Commissions Bob Singleton to Create “Treasure of the Kindly Dragon™”

Sensory-Friendly Multi-Media Event is Third in Successful Series of Family Symphony Concerts by Composer

The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra has commissioned Bob Singleton, renowned for his engaging orchestral works and award-winning work in TV and records, to create a new sensory-friendly symphony concert titled ”Treasure of the Kindly Dragon” (working title). This innovative project will provide an inclusive music, story, and projection experience for audiences of all ages, including those with sensory sensitivities.

“Treasure of the Kindly Dragon” will offer a magical adventure, woven into a sensory-friendly concert format for all ages. The story invites listeners into a whimsical and musical world, centered around a young and gentle dragon with themes of kindness and discovery. Singleton’s compositions incorporate enchanting melodies, vibrant orchestration, and memorable interactions with the audience and orchestra. The concert will provide a rich visual and auditory landscape that inspires imagination and connection.

Bob Singleton is a celebrated composer and arranger; former music director for “Barney and Friends” on PBS, with Grammy & Dove nominations and multi-platinum album credits. He is sought after for his ability to create captivating concert experiences that contain story, music, and visuals. His concert works successfully blend fun, education, and entertainment, making symphony music accessible to everyone.

Singleton’s previous concerts have captured the hearts of diverse family audiences and are being performed internationally, including “When Instruments Roamed the Earth® and “The Unicorn’s Birthday®.” These popular concerts show his successful knack for creating humorous and engaging symphony events that resonate with families and symphony organizations.

The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra continues to prioritize accessibility with its programming, opening the doors of symphony music to all members of the community. By commissioning “Treasure of the Kindly Dragon” as part of the Paul Webha Family Concert Series, they once again show their dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can experience the joy and wonder of the symphony orchestra.

The coming premiere of “Treasure of the Kindly Dragon” is set to be a significant event, promising to enchant families and individuals alike. Bob Singleton’s creative vision, combined with the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra’s commitment to inclusivity, reflects a shared dedication to making symphony concerts accessible and enjoyable for everyone, demonstrating that music transcends boundaries to connect us all.

Watch for updates on this new symphonic adventure, and follow both Bob Singleton and the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra for ongoing news and information about this exciting collaboration.

Contact Bob Singleton for more information about this concert and co-commissioning opportunities and privileges.

“The Unicorn’s Birthday®” by Bob Singleton – Concert Information Summary

Performance Length: 45 Minutes

Presented by:
Medium-size double-winds orchestra (see instrumentation below)
Narrator
Inflatable costume character Unicorn (costume available on Amazon)

Special included features:
License allows unlimited performances for entire season
Tiered pricing
Streaming rights for one year
Adorable projection graphics (not required, but helpful)
Brand-able coloring pages for program or lobby activities
Promotional graphics and text
Can be presented as family and/or special needs/sensory-friendly
Delightful on-stage activity by musicians
Gentle audience interactivity
Music & narration never overlap
Three detailed scripts; Narrator, Technical, & Slide Advance

Instrumentation:

2 flutes
1 oboe
1 English Horn
1 Bb clarinet
1 Bb clarinet/bass clarinet
2 bassoons
3 French Horns (with mutes)
3 C trumpets (with straight mutes)
*optional Bb trumpet parts included*
3 trombones (with straight mutes)
3 perc.*
violins 1
violins 2
violas
cellos
contrabass
Note: no piano, harp, tuba, or timpani

*Percussion list:
snare drum (snares on & off)
Tuned percussion: glockenspiel & xylophone
Misc. percussion:
tambourine
wood blocks
finger cymbals
small crash cymbals
small suspended splash cymbal
triangle
ratchet
bell tree
duck call

engraving by Philip Rothman, NYC Music Services