“Love Themes for Solo Piano” by Dan Chadburn
Album review by Dyan Garris for New Age CD and Zone Music Reporter
The music on “Love Themes for Solo Piano,” is distinctly, unmistakably Dan Chadburn, flowing and sweeping, while exuding rich textures and tender emotion from the heart. – Dyan Garris
“Love Themes for Solo Piano” is the 8th album in the New Age genre from the exceptional composer and improvisational piano player, Dan Chadburn. Even though this is some of the most romantic solo piano you’ll ever hear, the album is an expressive collection – 13 tracks – which explores and affirms the beautiful gift of love in all its various forms.
Hailing from Oregon, the multiple award-winning, Dan Chadburn, began studying classical piano at a young age. He now holds a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, as well as a Master of Music in Electroacoustic Composition. He has composed music for television, as well as working as a session musician and pianist. One of his most remarkable musical gifts is the ability to create music in the moment as a response to the stimuli of environment and emotion.
“Love Themes for Solo Piano” was recorded at Piano Haven Studio in Sedona, Arizona, with several of the tracks being extemporaneously composed and recorded as single takes. Three tracks on the album (“Timeless,” “Longing,” and “Unconditional”), were traditionally composed prior to the recording session in Sedona.
The music is distinctly Dan, flowing and sweeping, exuding rich textures and tender emotion from the heart. The entire album exudes the vibration of love, so Dan has definitely hit the mark here.
The album opens with the very pretty, “Starlit Waltz,” which was an improvisation in the recording session. This is graceful and evocative. Just beautiful. I don’t know how he does that. Truly astounding.
Following is “Gentle Touch,” which is just that. You can feel it on your body and in your soul. “Cherished” is another piece that was improvised in Sedona. This feels like a tender lullaby. Super relaxing. And did I say, “astounding?” Yes, I did. Because his gift of improvisation is beyond amazing.
“Stillness” is 3 minutes of peace to the mind, body, and spirit. “Newborn Joy” speaks to the hope and happiness of new life. We can really bliss-out with “Timeless.” Gentle, tender, and very tranquil. “Grounded” brings us back to Earth, then, with its effective use of both lower and upper registers of the piano, but in a totally good way.
Have you ever been to Sedona? It’s a magical place. “Stars Above Sedona” perfectly captures that enchanting feeling. Anyone who has ever felt deep longing for another person – or anything – actually, will find serene solace in the beautiful, “Longing.” “Reminisce” is a truly beautiful piece that deeply touched my heart. At 2:43 I wanted it to be longer. Just gorgeous, every note.
“Unconditional” is sweet and passionate. This is a piece that was “traditionally” composed. I can’t decide if Dan’s improvisations are best or if the traditional compositions are better. I should say, don’t choose between the two, because they are all just astonishingly lovely. The graceful and flowing, “Grateful” opens the heart to the awesomeness of love and life.
The album ends with the tender and touching, “Shalom,” which was also an improvisation in the recording session. The song is dedicated to Dan’s mother, Margaret, who passed away during album production. This one gave me chills. I think Margaret can hear it over there on the other side. Beautiful tribute.
I found it completely impossible to choose a favorite on this album, because it’s all superbly wonderful. “Love Themes for Solo Piano” is the perfect gift for yourself or any loved one.
Get it here: https://DanChadburn.com
Press/Radio Contact:
Sherry Finzer
Higher Level Media
[email protected]
www.higherlevel.media
