Carnival of the Animals (Le Carnaval des animaux) is a humorous musical suite by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns. The work, about 25 minutes in duration, was written for private performance by two pianos and chamber ensemble; Saint-Saëns prohibited public performances of the work during his lifetime, feeling that its frivolity would damage his standing as a serious composer. The Carnival of the Animals has since become one of Saint-Saëns's best-known works.
This "musical zoo", composed in 1886, is retold through the music of the legendary classical piano duo: Anthony and Joseph Paratore. Whether playing on one piano four-handed or on separate instruments, Anthony and Joseph Paratore are recognized as one of the foremost keyboard duos.
The Paratore brothers' piano playing is characterised not only by a wealth of nuances, but also by special precision, which gives the impression that both pianists merge into a perfect unit.