Standing Alone

About the Artist
Christan Matjias has spent the previous decade in his career as a performing musician. His precise and eclectic musical abilities, varied and detailed as a chameleon's coat, have earned him the reputation as a musician incapable of being pigeonholed into categories traditionally reserved for "Classical Based Specialists". Is he crack duty Harpsichordist, monster improviser in basso continuo style; a Pianist specializing in the music of Brahms, Schumann, Debussy, and Satie; or Organist buried deep into the works of Bach and Arvo Part; a collaborative musician with many of the major master teachers, choreographers and performers in modern dance and ballet? Rather quietly, he is all of the above.

Christian was born in East Los Angeles in 1963 and was adopted into a family where music was simply a background diversion on the radio. One of his earliest music memories is of a collection on Angel Records; a collection of songs recorded by the Soviet Army Chorus and Band.

For his eight birthday, his father gave him a copy of the original LP of the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice rock opera, Jesus Christ Superstar. Even at such a young age, he read the detailed liner notes included in the lyric book. In the notes for this album he read a thank you to Deep Purlpe for the loan of their lead signer, Ian Gillan. The name of the band, Deep Purple so intrigued him he asked an older cousin if he'd heard of them. The same cousin played for him the LP Deep Purple in Rock. This began for Christian, a three decade interest in this band, an introduction to rock music and most importantly, a lesson in the value of noise.

By the age of ten, Christian had become a serious fan of Marc Bolan's T. Rex, Elton John, David Bowie, and most importantly, Elvis Presley. He inherited from his father, a cache of original 45's by Elevis Presley, Les Paul and Mary Ford and Roy Orbison. This marked the beginning of Christian's insatiable interest in record collecting.

In time, after having taken in the complete collections of the Beatles and Rolling Stones, Christian did nothing but listen to music. School was a loss, of no real interest, but music, this is where it would always be for him.

By 1977 and now living in the sun and surf beach town of Redondo Beach, his musical identity was further shaped by two disparate influences. One was the Beach Boys, whose classic albums from 1965-73 were available a dime a dozen in the cut-out bins and used record shops. The second influence was the arrival of Punk Rock. Now with his interests drawn toward collecting as much of the imported vinyl coming from first wave punk bands, and those followed in their wake, Christian identified with nothing but music. Having come across and thereby influenced by albums of the Velvet Underground and Brian Eno, (Eno was just beginning his work on his Ambient series of albums) Christian knew there had to be something out there for him.

Upon leaving high school with a truly unremarkable record, no serious hope for attending a university and more importantly, no serious musical skills, he perfunctorily enrolled at El Camino Junio College (though Christian was unaware of it, this was the same school Brian Wilson attended prior to forming the Beach Boys). Enrolled as a history major, he immediately re-directed himself to becoming a music major upon hearing Claude Debussy's Prelude a L'Apres-Midi d'un Faune (Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun)in a music appreciation class. Months of self study at the piano were followed by a year of formal lessons (his first) with a proper piano teacher.

He prepared an audition, and was accepted into the School of Music at the University of Southern California. Though he was accepted as a piano major, halfway through his first year, he was deemed by the faculty as being unpromising and of possessing none of the serious technical ability required to become a pianist. Withdrawing from that program, he began studying with the notoriously understated master teacher, Bernardo Segall.

Bernardo Segall, throughout his six decade career, had played under Toscanini, Klemperer and Bernstein. He was the dedicate of the Piano Concerto No. 4 by Heitor Villa-Lobos. When Segall was a teenager, he studied with the legendary Russian pianist, Alexander Siloti. Upon "retiring" from concertizing, he pursued an active career as a composer for the theater. In the six years of weekly study with Segall, Christian learned not only technique and repertoire, but was actively encouraged to develop a sense of aesthetics in music.

Remaining in the School of Music, he enrolled in the studio of renowned harpsichordist Malcolm Hamilton. It was in studying this instrument that Christian first lost himself. Hamilton taught the indefatigable canon: First you study Bach, start with the Inventions, then the Suites, the Toccatas, Partitas and perhaps the Concertos. Then start in with the French composers and round out with the English virginalist. During his years in studying with Hamilton, Christian began to look at and interpret, music as a mosaic of colors and rhythms. Hamilton's vibrant, colorful and energetic style was just the feel Christian looked for and hoped to master. The teaching methods and individual interpretative styles of both Segall and Hamilton helped to provide a complimentary foil for each other. It was also during this time that Christian began to develop his own personal approach to performing music. This led to an opportunity to work with lutenist and early music scholar, James Tyler. Though an American, Tyler had been an original member of David Munrow's Early Music Consort of London, Musica Reservata, and the London Early Music Group. From Tyler, Christian learned the art of improvising in the basso continue style. He, more importantly, obtained from his work performing with Tyler, the ever elusive ability to read between the lines, balancing taste and instinct with technical know how.

Having earned Bachelor and Master degrees in Harpsichord and Early Music, Christian found himself in the all too familiar position of possessing skills which are for lack of a better term, all but unemployable. After a year of freelancing as a piano accompanist throughout Southern California, he was hired in 1991 to accompany and teach music theory at Interlochen Arts Academy. After 28 years of living in Los Angeles, Christian relocated to Northern Michigan.

After having lived in Traverse City for five years, Christian began work on two new projects. First, he began writing the music column for the Northern Express, the region's alternative weekly paper. He also began to disc jockey for public radio station WNMC, where he was host of the successful late night program, The Weekend Underground. These projects helped to squelch out the encroaching stagnation which had begun creeping into his everyday music making. Coming back to music which was raw, unpolished, loud, dissonant, but most importantly, stylistically right-on; all helped to reaffirm why it was he went into music in the first place. In addition to being an enormous relief from the absence of inspiration he was facing at the time, it more importantly, allowed Christian to reclaim his perspective on music and performing.

It ws during this period that Christian was introduced to Northern Michigan composer Phillip Carout. At Carout's request, Christian began to perform some of his works in recital appearances. Carout's music was time and again, enthusiastically received and frequently requested. Phillip and Christian soon came to an understanding where Christian would perform and produce his music.

His years of work collaborating the many of the country's best dancers, choreographers and dance companies, resulted in Christian being invited in 1998 to become an Assistant Professor of Dance at the University of Michigan School of Music. Given the unexpected and blind sided turns Christian's musical career has taken thus far, he expects this next chapter to be as entertainly tumultuous. He continues to work as a collaborative musician in chamber music, vocal music, opera and new music. He has also begun doctoral studies in Organ Performance with the internationally renowned artist, Dr. Marilyn Mason.

Product Description
Pianist Christian Matjias performs a series of pieces for solo piano by composer Phillip Carout that eschews the classical modes one might have expected from this gifted keyboardist, opting instead for the sparseness and relative danger of ambient music. This is music that does have joy in it, that goes unexpected places, that can challenge listeners while at the same time allow them to reflect on other matters. In that it is that rarest of musics, music that can be discovered anew each time it is heard. The music brings to mind classical phrasing here and jazzy mode there.

Standing Alone,Christian Matjias

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Average customer rating: Moved to tears Nonesuch delivers.Again harmonia in excelsis Our greatest living composer Wonderful CD

The John Adams Earbox: A 10-CD Retrospective Manufacturer: Nonesuch ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Dances | Ballets & Dances | Classical | Styles | Music Quartets | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music General | Chamber Music | Classical | Styles | Music All Works by Adams | Adams, John | ( A ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music Ives, Charles | ( I ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Ives, Charles | Composers | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Chamber Music | Forms & Genres | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Vocal & Song | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Contemporary | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music Piano | Keyboard | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music Violin | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Strings | Instruments | Classical | Styles | Music General | Symphonies | Classical | Styles | Music General | Sacred & Religious | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music San Francisco Symphony Orchestra | ( S ) | Featured Performers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Modern & 20th Century | Historical Periods | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music English | Languages | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Choruses | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Oratorios | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Minimal Techno | Techno | Dance & DJ | Styles | Music Classical | Box Sets | Stores | Music Opera & Vocal | Box Sets | Stores | Music Similar Items: Steve Reich 1965-1995 John Adams: The Dharma at Big Sur/My Father Knew Charles Ives Naive & Sentimental Music 25 Years: Retrospective Century Rolls ASIN: B00001SID1 Release Date: 1999-10-19

Tracks:

1. Lollapalooza
2. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Judah To Ocean
3. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Toot Nipple
4. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Dogjam
5. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Pavane: She's So Fine
6. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Rag The Bone
7. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Habanera
8. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Stubble Crotchet
9. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Hammer & Chisel
10. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Alligator Escalator
11. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Standchen: The Little Serenade
12. John's Book Of Alleged Dances: Judah To Ocean (Reprise)
13. Slonimsky's Earbox

Tracks:

1. Two Fanfares For Orchestra - Tromba Lontana
2. Two Fanfares For Orchestra - Short Ride In A Fast Machine
3. Common Tones In Simple Time
4. El Dorado - Part I. A Dream Of Gold
5. El Dorado - Part II. Soledades

Tracks:

1. Harmonielehre - Part I
2. Harmonielehre - Part II The Anfortas Wound
3. Harmonielehre - Part III Meister Eckhardt And Quackie
4. Violin Concerto - Part I
5. Violin Concerto - Part II Chaconne:
6. Violin Concerto - Part III Toccare

Tracks:

1. Chamber Sympony - Mongel Airs
2. Chamber Sympony - Aria With Walking Bass
3. Chamber Sympony
4. Hoodo Zephyr - Tundra
5. Hoodo Zephyr - Dissappointment Lake
6. Hoodo Zephyr - Hoodo Zephyr
7. Gnarly Buttons - The Perilous Shore
8. Gnarly Buttons - Hoe-Down (Mad Cow)
9. Gnarly Buttons - Put Your Loving Arms Around Me

Tracks:

1. Ensemble - I Was Looking At The Ceiling And Then I Saw The Sky
2. A Sermon On Romance
3. Consuelo's Dream
4. Mike's Song About Arresting A Particular Individual
5. Tiffany's Solo
6. Song About The On-Site Altercation
7. Song About The Bad Boys And The News
8. Your Honor My Client He's A Young Black Man
9. Leila's Song; Alone (Again Or At Last)
10. Three Weeks And Still I'm Outta My Mind
11. Crushed By The Rock I Been Standing On
12. Dewain's Song Of Liberation And Surprise
13. !Este Pais! / This Country
14. One Last Look At The Angel In Your Eyes
15. Finale

Tracks:

1. Lollapalooza
2. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Judah To Ocean
3. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Toot Nipple
4. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Dogjam
5. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Pavane: She's So Fine
6. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Rag The Bone
7. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Habenera
8. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Stubble Crotchet
9. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Hammer & Chisel
10. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Alligator Escalator
11. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Standchen: The Little Serenade
12. John's Book Of Alleged Dances - Judah To Ocean (Reprise)
13. Slonimsky's Earbox

Tracks:

1. Harmonium - Negative Love
2. Harmonium - Becuase I Could Not Stop For Death
3. Harmonium - Wild Nights
4. Shaker Loops - Shaking and Trambling
5. Shaker Loops - Hymning Slews
6. Shaker Loops - Loops and Verses
7. Shaker Loops - A Final Shaking

Tracks:

1. The Chairman Dances - Foxtrot For Orchestra
2. Grand Pianola Music - First Movement
3. Grand Pianola Music - Second Movement
4. Grand Pianola Music - Third Movement: On The Dominant Divide
5. Fearful Symmetries

Tracks:

1. Nixon In China - Opening
2. Nixon In China -
3. Nixon In China -
4. Nixon In China - Landing Of The Spirit Of '76
5. Nixon In China -
6. Nixon In China -
7. Nixon In China -
8. Nixon In China -
9. Nixon In China - Cheers
10. Nixon In China -
11. Nixon In China - Opening
12. Nixon In China -
13. Nixon In China -
14. Nixon In China -
15. Nixon In China -
16. Nixon In China -
17. Nixon In China -
18. Nixon In China -
19. Nixon In China -
20. Nixon In China -
21. Nixon In China -
22. Nixon In China -

Tracks:

1. The Wound-Dresser
2. Christian Zeal And Activity
3. Five Songs - Thoreau
4. Five Songs - Down East
5. Five Songs - Cradle Song
6. Five Songs - At The River
7. Five Songs - Serenity
8. Eros Piano

Amazon.com

Having earned his composing stripes after the 1960s, John Adams had the pioneering work of Steve Reich, Philip Glass, and Terry Riley close at hand as he ventured into his trade. And, while minimalism's historical continuum helps place Adams, he used Reich, Glass, and Riley (among others) only as a starting point. And here's proof: a 10-CD retrospective of nearly all Adams's recorded compositions on Nonesuch Records, the label that also issued Steve Reich 1965-1995 and Kronos Quartet: 25 Years. Adams's Harmonium, a choral work of startling energy and effervescence, appears here in a new recording, as do distillations of both The Death of Klinghoffer and Nixon in China, two path-clearing operas. Over the span of a career covered by Earbox, Adams has returned minimalism to traditional instrumental ensembles as well as to projects that at once advanced a political commentary and took that commentary back to orchestral audiences. And so, in far less time than his predecessors, Adams created works that now play like standard repertoire pieces: The Wound Dresser and Shaker Loops and the Violin Concerto--all of them are here. What these works demonstrate is a fierce creativity on the one hand and perhaps a hunger for commercial advances on the other. Adams may at times be a bustling free thinker, but he sounds ever conscious of what audiences are listening to. As for the works themselves, they remain every bit as daunting as when written.

Some may object to particular selections. I Was Looking at the Ceiling and Then I Saw the Sky, for example, hardly ranks with Adams's best work. But this box isn't a mere best-of; it's an almost-all-of. At times terrifically American--especially in the news-aware operas and their narrative pragmatism--Adams well deserves a major box set, and its coverage is appropriate to his varied, stylistically diverse output. As with any large-scale retrospective, Earbox--which fairly bristles with Adams's new composition, Slonimsky's Earbox--has spots where fans might balk at the quality of the composer's writing. But it's got a fantastic accompanying booklet along with its many hours of inarguably modern and thoroughly listener-friendly music. --Andrew Bartlett

Customer Reviews:

Moved to tears.......2004-03-18

Never before in my life was i moved so intensely and directly by classical music. I put the first cd in my player and a few minutes later tears are flowing. I find myself dancing and moving to a rythm i already seem to know. Wow, i just have to share that.

Nonesuch delivers.Again.......2002-11-27

John adams is one of the most popular living composers of"modern" classical music[I believe the cutoff point, though arbitrary is usually WWII}.I came to him late, through my husband. Modersn classical music , I said? What the hell is that?My husband kept playing bits and pieces of adams for me, and more and more i found myself amazed. and swayed. His operas have been groundbreaking{Nixon in China} controversial{Death Of klinghoffer},his compostions sublimely beautiful{shaker Loops or harmonium].HIS STATURE IS WORTHY THEN OF SUCH A MONUMENTAL CAREER SPANNING BOX SET.This 10 disc set[great value, again from NONESUCH}encompasses Adams' entire career,and though there are some misses here{I was looking at the ceiling and then i saw the sky doesnt quite fit},it is still magnificent. the Highlights are ,{for me} the Wound Dresser, Chamber symphony,Violin Concerto, of course, Shaker Loops and Harmonuim are wonderful. The true jewels here are Nixon in China,the Chairman dances and the Death of Klinghoffer,which is simply a masterpiece. The set comes with a wonderful book, which contains essay's by Robert Hurwitz {An Uncommon Man}renaud Machart[John adams as seen from europe} and Essays before an earbox by Adams himself.A Chronology and dicography are included. A wonderful study of an American original,worth the investment, Highly highly recommended

harmonia in excelsis.......2001-11-12

I must agree with Mr. Bartlett, particularly with regard to "Ceiling." It may well be because his Violin Concerto and Harmonielehre are so powerful. 4.5 stars.
Interesting, and likely intentional, is that two names in the extensive liner book fail to mention two great and glaringly obvious precursors: Carl Orff and Raymond Scott. Without "Carmina Burana," there would be no "Harmonium." Orff has his mark all over Adams's gifted and epic compositions. Similarly, though there are glib references to "cartoon music," the polymath engineer/musician Scott is a seminal figure in American music, and casts a large shadow over the witty juxtapositions and sense of play one loves in Adams's work. In all, an excellent career overview.

Our greatest living composer.......2001-07-22

As a composer, I'm staggered that anyone could fail to be gripped by this music.

That anyone can use the words "spoiled, overrated" amazes me. I emphatically disagree with "A music fan"'s review.

I don't think it's "mind-numbing"; I think it's spiritual and exciting. To me it's the most substantial music being created in our times.

I'm really sorry that anyone could fail to enjoy it, and really recommend others to listen for themselves.

Wonderful CD.......2000-04-02

This compilation should turn even the most curmudgeonly listerner into a fan. Beautifully recorded, great notes -- and it's a heck of a bargain!

Average customer rating:

Standing Alone White Wolf Manufacturer: RCA ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Hard Rock & Metal | Styles | Music Pop Rock | Pop | Styles | Music Similar Items: Endangered Species Victim of the Spotlight The Right to Rock Uprising Snakes & Arrows ASIN: B000MZHV46 Release Date: 2007-04-02

Tracks:

1. Standing Alone
2. Headlines
3. Shadows in the Night
4. What the War Will Bring
5. Night Rider
6. Homeward Bound
7. Metal Thunder
8. Trust Me

Album Details

Japanese Limited Edition Issue of the Album Classic in a Deluxe, Miniaturized LP Sleeve Replica of the Original Vinyl Album Artwork.

Average customer rating: Moravian songs, via Janacek, Godar, Bittova and Skampa Skampa Quartet is great - the singer... yikes

Janácek: Moravian Folk Poetry in Songs Leos Janacek , Iva Bittová , ¿kampa Quartet , Vladimír Godár , and Skampa Quartet Manufacturer: Supraphon ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Janácek, Leos | ( J ) | Featured Composers, A-Z | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical (c.1770-1830) | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General Modern | Modern, 20th, & 21st Century | Historical Periods | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music General | Folk | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music Folk Songs | Songs & Lieder | Vocal Non-Opera | Opera & Vocal | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Adult Alternative | Pop | Styles | Music Experimental Music | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music Similar Items: Elida Cikory Peter Lieberson: Neruda Songs ASIN: B00061X9YC Release Date: 2005-03-01

Tracks:

1. Tuzba (Desire)
2. Stst'/Steadiness
3. Lavecka (Bench)
4. Stesk (Woe) - Skampa Quartet
5. Obrk Mileho (Lover's Likeness)
6. Svatba Kom (Gnats Wedding)
7. Kouzlo (Charm)
8. Slib (Promise)
9. Orisek Lovy (Hazel Nut) - Skampa Quartet
10. La (Love)
11. Jablunka (Apple Tree)
12. Jabucko (Sweet Apple)
13. Co Je to Za Nebe (What Sky)
14. Safva C (Alderman's Daughter)
15. Cervenab(Little Red Apples)
16. Dobr(Good Hunt)
17. He Warden)
18. Kony Mil [My Lover's Horses]
19. Kv MilodejnLove Herbs)
20. Pcko (Posy)
21. LoucenMilou
22. Jindy a NynThen and Now)
23. T (Uneasy)
24. VzknMessage)
25. Belegrade (Belgrade) - Skampa Quartet
26. Milenec Vrah (Lover Killer)
27. Pomluva (Calumny)
28. LoucenParting)
29. Sirota (Lonely Soul)
30. Osamel Alone)
31. Komu Kytka (For Whom the Posy)
32. Z Od Mil (Love Shining)
33. Polajka (Thyme)
34. Kol(KolTown)
35. Psano (Love Letter)
36. Karafi(Carnation)
37. Rozmarsemary)
38. Pamy (Mementos)
39. Zpevulenka (Tender Little Tune)
40. Nejistota (Uncertainty)
41. Kukacka (Cuckoo)
42. Zahrcka (Fence)
43. Muzikanti (Musicians)
44. Vernost' (Faithfulness)
45. Bolavlava (Headache)
46. Osud (Fate)
47. Daleko ProvdanWedded Far Away)
48. Budk (Wakening)
49. Dobrada (Sound Advice)
50. Slzy echou (Tears of Comfort)
51. Koukol (Corncockle)
52. Kalina (Guelder Rose)
53. Pohreb Zbojnv

Customer Reviews:

Moravian songs, via Janacek, Godar, Bittova and Skampa.......2006-05-09

This is a unique recording of Janacek's transcriptions of Moravian folk songs. Originally for piano and voice, they have been transcribed by Slovak composer Vladimir Godar for string quartet and (occasionally) three-voice male chorus. Here they are performed by renowned Czech singer and violinist Iva Bittova, accompanied by the Skampa Quartet and chorus. The effect is not so much of classical liede, but of authentic eastern European "popular" songs - the sonority of the string quartet adds to this in no small part. Janacek would be proud.

Skampa Quartet is great - the singer... yikes.......2005-07-28

I honestly did not know what I was getting myself into when I bought this CD. I love Janacek, I love folk songs... how could I go wrong? Iva Bittova! I was concerned that she would have a 50yr old woobly voice, but instead what exists is a thin VERY nasal tone... perhaps she should be singing traditional Bulgarian music! The voice is expressive, just ugly.
The recording quality is not very good, either. On many of the tracks, Iva seems to be muffled and in the background of the recording.
Really - dont waste your time and money, unless you really would just like to have a recording of over 50 Janacek songs.

Average customer rating: from Solo Piano Publications Michael Allen Harrison Composer/Pianist An Amazing Collection of Piano Music An Amazing CD

Composer/Pianist Manufacturer: Mah Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Concertos | Forms & Genres | Classical | Styles | Music General | Classical | Styles | Music Jazz Fusion | Jazz | Styles | Music Smooth Jazz | Jazz | Styles | Music General | New Age | Styles | Music Movie Scores | Soundtracks | Styles | Music Movie Soundtracks | Soundtracks | Styles | Music General | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music General | Adult Contemporary | Pop | Styles | Music General | Easy Listening | Pop | Styles | Music New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music | Ambient | Celtic | Environmental | General | International | Jazz | Meditation Music | Piano | World Dance Easy Listening | Pop | Indie Music | Stores | Music Similar Items: Passion & Grace: Solo Piano ASIN: B000068GAR Release Date: 2002-07-02

Tracks:

1. Will You Take Me There
2. I Breathe - Concerto No. 1 In E Flat Major, First Movement
3. Remembrance
4. Journey Home
5. Eclipse
6. Best Of Every Moment
7. Thanksgiving
8. February's Child
9. Tahlia's Lullaby
10. Transitions
11. Fly Away
12. Dance On The Roof

Tracks:

1. Tomorrow's
2. 3rd Ave
3. Starry Night
4. Moments In Passion
5. Circle Of Influence
6. Standing Alone
7. Passion And Grace
8. Nocturne In D Flat Major
9. Masada
10. Little Bit Naughty
11. On The Run
12. Motherhood
13. Ema Sh'li (Mother Of Mine)
14. Renewal
15. Be Real

Customer Reviews:

from Solo Piano Publications.......2004-07-03

My one-word summary of Michael Allen Harrison's double CD set, "Pianist/Composer," is "WOW!" I have seen and heard Harrison's name for a long time, but none of his CDs came my way for review until I reviewed one of his students' CDs (the very impressive Alexx Carnathan) earlier this year. I was not prepared to be so dazzled and charmed at the same time. This set is made up of Harrison's favorite compositions from the past twenty years or so, and includes his new "Concerto #1 in Eb Major," which is a tour de force all by itself. Both discs are very eclectic in their musical range, but Disc 1 is more classical overall, and Disc 2 has a jazzier flavor. The majority of the pieces are orchestrated or have accompanying instruments in addition to the piano, but Harrison's piano is the star of the show. We're only halfway through the year, but I'm certain that this will be on my list of favorites for 2004.

The three-movement concerto opens the first CD. The first movement ("I Breathe") started out as a love ballad in Harrison's musical, and evolved into a gorgeous 12 1/2 minute piece influenced by some of the Romantic composers. The first half of the piece is gentle and sweet, but begins building in the middle to a fiery climax. Primarily piano and strings, this piece really sets the stage for what's to come. It highlights Harrison's gentle touch as well as his magnificent bravado and virtuosity. The second movement ("Will You Take Me There") is a bit more orchestrated, and the lovely melody is haunting and passionate. The third movement is full of flash and dynamic pianistics. A piano solo, Harrison must be sitting in a puddle by the time he gets done playing it live! Great stuff! "Remembrance" is a tribute to the 50th anniversary of Israel's independence and to the lives lost during the Holocaust. Performed with Aaron Meyer on violin and The Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, the piece has a deeply emotional and tragic feeling, but also suggests triumph and moving forward. I love "Transitions," a piece inspired by a wild rainstorm. Full of passion, power, and a subtle touch of mystery, the playing on this piece can take your breath away - effortless control and amazing chops. Stunning! "Fly Away" is another favorite. It started as a cool groove for a vocal tune, and is a piece Harrison and his band play differently every time. This version is piano, light percussion, and a wonderful oboe part performed by Fred Korman of the Oregon Symphony. A great CD, but, wait -there's more!

As I mentioned, the second CD is a bit jazzier overall, but there are several different styles present. "Tomorrow's" was composed as a gift for Harrison's daughter on her graduation from junior high. Lightly orchestrated and featuring oboe, guitar, and piano, this piece is sunny and radiant. "Moments in Passion" is a dark, sultry piece with piano, guitar, and percussion that would be a wonderful slow dance - a favorite. "Standing Alone" is a slow bluesy piece that could have stepped out of the 1930's - I really like this one, too! "Nocturne in Db Major" is a gorgeous improvisation that was recorded as it was being created late at night in the studio while imagining the time of the great Romantic composers. "Little Bit Naughty" is a great blues piano solo - slinky and fun! "Ema Sh'li (Mother of Mine)" is a haunting ballad composed for Harrison's mother's 50th birthday. A warm, bittersweet, and very loving piano solo, it is both classical and contemporary, and thanks "Mom" for making him practice the piano when he was a kid.

"Composer/Pianist" is truly an outstanding collection on so many levels. I get to feeling kind of jaded from listening to so much piano music, but this set really blows me out of my seat! I give it my highest recommendation.

Michael Allen Harrison Composer/Pianist.......2003-11-25

My favorite track is Piano Concerto #1. It consists of 3 movements. All three movements are brilliant but the the 2nd movement will make your heart flutter. I appreciate the way this man plays a piano.

An Amazing Collection of Piano Music.......2003-04-19

If you have never heard of Michael Allen Harrison before, don't be deterred. I discovered this CD quite by accident, and how pleased I am that I did.

Michael is a very talented composer who showcases here some 27 tracks spanning two discs and lasting well over two hours. Piano is the dominant instrument, and he plays with such compassion and style.

This collection highlights his finest compositions since 1980. His piano music is highly melodic and a pleasure to listen to. Some pieces are quiet and reflective, others have sheer energy and vivaciousness about them.

There are so many strong and memorable tracks. Particular favourites are "Will You Take Me There", "Remembrance", "Best of Every Moment", "February's Child" and "Passion and Grace".

This double CD is not cheap; but you are paying for piano music of the highest quality. The CD insert contains comprehensive notes about each track, charting its history and the thinking behind the music.

If you are a fan of piano music, and want to discover an exceptionally talented pianist (Steinway Signature Artist), then try out this CD.

A quite wonderful CD, I give it my highest recommendation.

An Amazing CD.......2003-01-26

This is the most expensive CD I have ever purchased, but it's been worth every penny.
This is a collection of Michael Allen Harrison's (MAH) best work, spanning some 22 years. Put simply, it is absolutely outstanding. The man's technique and ear for melody are second to none.
There are twenty seven tracks in total over two discs, and the notes inside the CD track the thinking behind the magic of the music.
Personal favourites are in abundance in this album, and include "Will You Take Me There?" (a new composition), "Rememberance", "Best of Every Moment", the well known "February's Child" and "Passion and Grace".
Generally, the music is highly accessible and deservingly commands more attention than simply being background music.
Don't be deterred by the lack of Audio Samples. As for the price, well I imagine [$$] per disc of such quality is not unreasonable. Take a chance!!!
MAH is a talent indeed. The quality of sound is stunning.
The only surprise is that I am the only one to have reviewed this, and I'm from England, UK!
Highly recommended.

Average customer rating:

Standing Alone Manufacturer: Stand Alone Music ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Rap & Hip-Hop | Styles | Music ASIN: B000CA2L9G Release Date: 2003-12-09

Average customer rating: "Standing Alone" by Stevie Lawrence This one's by "Stevie" Lawrence, not Steve Lawrence

Standing Alone Stevie Lawrence Manufacturer: Krl ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Scottish Folk | Traditional British & Celtic Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Traditional Folk | Folk | Styles | Music Britain | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music Scotland | British Isles | Europe | International | Styles | Music General | International | Styles | Music General | Celtic | International | Styles | Music Traditional Vocal Pop | Broadway & Vocalists | Styles | Music General | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Classic | Vocal Pop | Pop | Styles | Music Traditional Pop | Oldies | Pop | Styles | Music General | International | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B00007FZH9 Release Date: 2002-12-03

Tracks:

1. Academy Boys
2. Scottish Gothic
3. Banklands
4. Psycho Magnet/The Crocodile
5. McBribes
6. Hedgehope Hill
7. Megajig Set
8. Soon/The Creek
9. Maid Behind the Bar/Amber and Steel
10. Joker
11. Pearce Lodge/Jimmy d's Hornpipe
12. Stobieside Lodge/The First Time Ever I Saw Your Fez
13. Hardington Mains
14. Southpark House Jigs
15. Border Spirit

Customer Reviews:

"Standing Alone" by Stevie Lawrence.......2003-04-07

This is a really great album, especially if one is a "double course" junkie (you like Irish Bouzouki). This is not the husband of Edie Gorme. Stevie Lawrence played in the Scottish band Iron Horse. He plays bouzouki, mandola, mandocello, mandolin, guitar, bass, hurdy-gurdy, low whistles, tiple, cittern, banjo and percussion. And he is good at all of them. The music ranges from traditional Celtic to modern jazz to Turkish bouzouki. Even if you don't like irish bouzouki one can't help but be impressed by Steve's playing and the music is really first rate. I am almost as old as the other reviewer but I really enjoyed this CD. If you are young or like Celtic music and have an open mind you will not be disappointed by this album.

This one's by "Stevie" Lawrence, not Steve Lawrence.......2003-02-11

Man, did my sinus clear out when I opened this CD. On the cover is a semi-abstract picture of a guitar, and "stevie lawrence" written across the top. On the back is a picture of said "stevie lawrence" with a full head of skin playing a guitar. In the fine print at the bottom it says the album was produced in Glasgow,Scotland. The titles of some of the songs are: "Psycho Magnet," "Hedgehope Hill," "Megajig Set," "Stobieside Lodge," and "Border Spirit." Oviously this is not a recording of Eydie Gorme's husband, but of someone of a similar name from the other side of the pond. I have not taken off the shrink-wrap to play this CD. I intend to return it to ... right away for a refund. But just by the titles, I can tell this is not the kind of album that would smoke the shorts of an old geezer like myself.

Average customer rating: Original, Fun, and Clean

Standing Alone ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD ASIN: B0002Z97OI

Customer Reviews:

Original, Fun, and Clean.......2005-04-01

If this is the music I think it is, it is some of the best I have heard in a long time. There's no foul language, no hints of anything inappropriate, and best of all, it's just fun! I loved it, and would definately recommend it to anyone, if of course this is the right music. If it is it should have three boys with guitars, one of which I think is named Colby R...something!

Average customer rating: An engaging CD Precious Piece of Music

Standing Alone Christian Matjias Manufacturer: The Orchard ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Meditation | New Age | Styles | Music General | Rock | Styles | Music Meditation Music | New Age | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B00003A9R4 Release Date: 2000-04-21

Tracks:

1. Desert Echo
2. Stolen Within
3. Western Wynde
4. Pillow Of Dreams II
5. Silken Lips
6. Twilight Water
7. The Robe
8. A Scottish Dream (I Keep A Close Watch...)
9. Kata
10. Amber Winds
11. The Beauty Of Time
12. Diana's Half-Dream Waltz
13. Pillow Of Dreams II
14. Standing Alone

Customer Reviews:

An engaging CD.......2002-10-12

This is truly an engaging CD that makes me want to dance, to think, to laugh, and to cry. It is not often that I have been so moved by music. This seems a perfect marriage of Phillip Carout's compositions and Christian Matjias' artistry as a pianist. The selections on the CD elicit many and varied emotions all at once. One of my favorite selections is "A Scottish Dream" which is perfectly melancholic without being melodramatic. Another favorite is "Pillow of Dreams I." The unbridled energy of this track makes me want to dance and to take flight like a bird. One could disappear into this CD in a reverie and find it difficult to return.

Precious Piece of Music.......2000-01-29

This music is to the ears and soul as red roses are to the heart. Peaceful,tranqil, serene and beautiful.

Average customer rating: Hot, raw, ripping guitar. Hard Rockin' Blues!

Standing Alone ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD Blues Rock | Rock | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B00000J732 Release Date: 1998-09-01

Tracks:

1. Lot To Do
2. Nasty
3. Standing Alone
4. Love My Baby
5. Won't Be Back
6. Doing Wrong
7. Cry No More
8. How It Is
9. Bad Today
10. Get So Troubled
11. Home Tonight

Album Description

Standing Alone, a scorching hot recording featuring the blistering guitar and smooth vocals of Don Griffin backed by Johnny B. Gayden on bass and Ray "Killer" Allison on drums. Standing Alone pulsates with hard edge blues, plenty of rock and funk with burning, screaming, peaking guitar work and vocals.

Customer Reviews:

Hot, raw, ripping guitar........2001-10-01

If you love guitar the way I do, you'll love this cd. This guy rips up and down the neck like no one I have heard in a long, long time. Unreal wah wah action too. I had never even heard of Don Griffin before and bought this cd out of the blue. Now I'm ordering his others cd's too. As a bonus his vocals are just about perfect for the music. I can't listen to it enough!!

Hard Rockin' Blues!.......2000-06-22

Griffin's second release is an improvement over the first. Eleven smokin' originals and no covers. The CD combines the talents of blues bass player extrodinaire Johnny B. Gayden and the highly respected drummer Ray "Killer" Allison with Griffin's hard driving vocals and smooth fret work. The tempo on this CD is somewhat slower and more mature than on "Bad, Bad, Man" but that in no way translates to boring. Rather, the pace is a perfect backdrop which allows Griffin the opportunity to play his solo's without background clutter, and it works. "Nasty" and "Standing Alone" are good examples of this. As with the first CD, Griffin makes liberal use of the wah-wah and continues his Robin Trower style vocals. If you like your blues to rock hard and steady, you would enjoy this CD. I look forward to the 3rd release--Play it Loud.

Average customer rating: Mellow and sophisticated solo jazz vibraphone Outstanding

Standing Alone Ted Piltzecker Manufacturer: Equilibrium Records ProductGroup: Music Binding: Audio CD General | Jazz | Styles | Music General | Jazz | Indie Music | Stores | Music ASIN: B00005RGLP Release Date: 2001-10-30

Tracks:

1. My Romance
2. My One And Only Love
3. In Your Own Sweet Way
4. In A Sentimental Mood
5. Trieste
6. God Bless The Child
7. Body And Soul
8. Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans
9. Blue In Green
10. Invitation
11. Like Someone In Love
12. Naima
13. La Malanga

Customer Reviews:

Mellow and sophisticated solo jazz vibraphone.......2004-11-16

An amazing CD! This is a solo jazz vibraphone album. Ted's playing is incredibly mellow yet, sophisticated. Beautiful music to listen and relax with. No harsh trumpets or saxophones, just calm and intricate jazz. Form hard-core jazz fans to the casual listener, EVERYONE will like this CD.

Outstanding.......2002-03-31

I enjoyed Unicycle Man, but Standing Alone is even better. The solo instrumental is wonderful. It is a terrific album. Ethereal.

Meditation Music:

1. Swim with the Dolphins
2. The Abba Collection
3. The Ancient and the Infant
4. The Enchanted Forest
5. The Hidden Rift
6. The Journey: Places, Real and Imagined
7. The Lost Chord
8. The New World Opera
9. The Pond: The Ultimate in Relaxation and Meditation
10. Tranquil Harbor

Meditation Music

meditation music

Meditation Music

Enzso 2: Classical Split Enz [Import]

Mendelssohn: Songs without Words in D; Sonata for cello No2

Nancy Yuen - Per l'Amore

Music: Travelin' Man/Time for Love [Import] [Original record

Prophecy [Import]

Popart: the Hits 1985-2003 [Limited Edition] [Import]

Les Lolas [Import]

Paperchase

No Somos Iguales

Nicolò Paganini: Centone di Sonate for Violin & Guitar, Vol. 3 - Luigi Alberto Bianchi & Maurizio Preda

Music for Pleasure [Import]

Samwad

Miami Bass Machine

St Louis Blues

Voodoo