There was once an Emperor, who was very rich and had an orchestra of his own which was famous throughout the land. Everyone was very proud of it…

Synopsis: The Emperor's Orchestra tells the story of a band of players whose performances are going downhill because of considerable boredom, and the threat of the Emperor's impetuous daughter to leave the palace if things don't improve. The Court Adviser recommends finding a composer (which is what all bored orchestras need!); a proclamation is issued; several turn up but none impress the Princess. And then a pipe-playing woodcutter is found whose magical gift brings about the revival of the orchestra's former glory - and the Princess marries him!

 Commission: Northern Orchestral Enterprises Ltd.