1. As Tools of Magic:
* The Broom: The most iconic example, the broom is animated by Mickey Mouse's magic, becoming a rebellious and chaotic force. It carries buckets of water and even dances with other brooms, visually representing the escalating chaos.
* The Apprentice's Wand: The wand is used to cast spells, and its movements and the effects it produces (water, fire, etc.) directly influence the plot.
* The Magic Circle: The circle, drawn on the ground, acts as a boundary for the magic and serves as a visual cue for when the magic is about to be unleashed or controlled.
2. As Characters with Personality:
* The Brooms: The brooms, although not sentient, act with a surprising amount of personality. They react to Mickey's commands, become playful, and even show a bit of aggression.
* The Instruments in the Orchestral Hall: While not explicitly animated, the instruments create a dramatic atmosphere through their music. They build tension, represent the chaos, and even reflect the emotions of the characters.
3. As Narrative Devices:
* The Music: The music is a crucial storytelling element. It sets the mood, foreshadows events, and even reveals information through the use of leitmotifs (recurring musical themes associated with specific characters or situations).
* The Animated Sequences: The visual spectacle of the instruments playing themselves, dancing, and fighting reinforces the story's themes of magic, chaos, and the apprentice's struggle to control his powers.
Overall, the instruments in "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" are more than just instruments. They are active participants in the narrative, serving as tools of magic, characters with personalities, and narrative devices that enrich the storytelling experience.