Coming mostly from improvisation, these original compositions blend New Age, World Music, Native American Style Flute Music and Inter-Spiritual Chanting (non-denominational), as invitations to embark on heart-opening journeys, whether peaceful or passionate — with a reverence for the Sacred in life. Transporting melodies feature especially the wooden Native American style flute, and are sometimes accompanied …
CD Review: Tympanum
Tympanum was recorded live, and contains “in the moment” dramatic duet improvisations by pianist Jane Buttars and cellist David Darling. Their melodies intertwine as they listen deeply through sound and silence. From dancing staccato rhythms to smooth melodic lines, both musicians express through the tones and colors of their instruments. They match or compliment one …
CD Review: Learning to Fly
Neil Tatar, guitarist/pianist, is a graduate of Music for People’s Musicianship and Leadership Program who currently serves on Music for People’s board. In his new CD Learning to Fly, Neil “winged in” inspiration from memories of life experiences, meaningful moments and changes that shaped his world. Each composition came from the heart expressing personal life …
A Voice Teacher Sings Out for the Art of Improvisation
It was in late July 2013, when I (a classically trained singer and voice teacher) felt the wonderment of my first AOI experience with Music for People. Eager for another new and inspiring adventure, I walked into Lynn Miller’s vocal track class. With a sparkle in her eye and a welcoming smile, Lynn guided our …
Book Review: Innovative Drum Circles: Beyond Beat into Harmony
Book: Innovative Drum Circles: Beyond Beat into Harmony by Mary Knysh Rhythm is the doorway to community connection. Drum circle facilitators know this well. The organizing power of rhythm and music is revealed every day in their work when audiences are transformed into interacting ensembles. Drums and percussion generate their own kinds of songs, with …
Christobal Jacques
A teachers comment on a first grade report card read “ Chris is a fine little boy who loves to sing and dance but that’s all he wants to do” and not much has changed in the sixty-five plus years since that observation was made. None the less performing is not high on my list …
CD Review: Ministry of Spontaneous Composition
Ministry of Spontaneous Composition is comprised of free jazz explorations from members of the DC Improvisers Collective. These steller musicians Patrick Whitehead (trumpet and MfP member), Ben Azarra (drums), John Kammon (guitar), Jonathan Morris (keyboard) and Ben Redwine (clarinet) created the entire CD in the moment. There is deep listening amongst the members as moods …
CD Review: Wild Plains
Josée Allard (classical pianist) met her muse when she was acquainted with Norman Nawrocki (Ukranian folk violinist). They originally met to play for fun yet unintentionally ended up creating a CD from their musical explorations and improvisations. Wild Plains has expressed it’s name through fiery lines grounded in strong musicianship from different genres. The differences …
CD Review: Ecstatic Dances
JoAnne Spies is a singer/songwriter and storyteller who creates stories and song wherever she goes, inviting the listener to join in. In her new CD, Ecstatic Dances, she delivers conscious thought and lessons through the body with spirit and groove. Collaborating with hip-hop artist Jackson Whalan and musician/ producer Robby Baier, JoAnne invites the listener …
CD Review: Earth Poems
In her Earth Poems CD, Betsy Bevan (pianist) has collaborated with Will Ridenour (kora) and Daniel Chambo (world flutes ) to create free flowing music for relaxation and introspection. The music moves the listener toward an inner journey. The first cut “In Your Light” was inspired by Rumi. The album musically emulates the words translated …