Tale of Issoumbochi, The - for Narrator, Soprano and Five Players

The Tale of Issoumbochi, (the approximate Japanese equivalent of “Tom Thumb”), is scored for narrator, soprano, and chamber ensemble of five players. The charming story of Issoumbochi’s adventures is skillfully captured in Ward-Steinman’s imaginative and colorful score, and in the libretto by Susan Lucas. The tonality in the work is rather free, and complements the narration very well. Commissioned by the Association for Childhood Education International. Premiere Apr. 18, 1968, San Diego, ACEI Convention; Emma Small, sop., S. Sanford Engel, nar.; conducted by the composer.