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Archive for the ‘New Age Music’ Category

Newest Interview with Pianist David Lanz prior to 2013.

Platinum selling pianist David Lanz is a legendary instrumental recording and concert artist who achieved worldwide prominence early on in the New Age music genre, and over the course of his lengthy career which spans decades. Today David Lanz is recognized as one of the leading concert pianists, and instrumental recording artist.

David Lanz celebrates the 25 year anniversary of Cristofori’s Dream in 2012 by the release of a brand new recorded version of his most popular piano album. New Age Music World host John P. Olsen had an opportunity to interview David Lanz prior to the New Year 2013.

This newest interview covers a variety of topics, including the new solo piano, and piano with instrumental recordings of Cristofori’s Dream, Liverpool – Re-imagining the Beatles, Here Comes the Sun, and a new Christmas album project scheduled for release in 2012.

During this interview with David Lanz there are also questions about his career achievements and personal style as composer. We are pleased to present their conversation to David Lanz’s international fan base and our site visitors.

John P. Olsen: Thank you for giving everyone a moment of your time David. Like your fans, I too have admired your music for many years, so our interview today is especially rewarding to me.

You gained prominence as a new age artist early in your career, and have enjoyed many successes along the way. Let me begin our interview by first congratulating you on a remarkable 25 year career David!

David Lanz: Thanks John, I am happy to be here and speaking with you today!

John: Decades ago you helped put the New Age Music Genre on the forefront by release of Cristofori’s Dream. In fact Billboard Magazine selected Cristofori’s Dream as the #1 album in 1988 when they introduced the Billboard Adult Alternative/New Age Album Chart for the first time. Are you optimistic your 2012 Cristofori’s Dream releases, in either version, may make the Billboard Chart again?

David Lanz: That would be great, however I do not really pay as much attention to charts anymore and without a major label doing the leg work, it may be a stretch, but hope springs eternal – right?

John: Was the overwhelming success of Cristofori’s Dream in 1988 a surprise to you at all, or did you feel after completion you had produced an album, many people then and now consider a masterpiece?

David Lanz: I remember both Paul Speer and I (Paul was my co-producer) sitting and listening to the final mix and thinking, “This is a good record.” That was our response, so the overwhelming success did catch us a bit off guard! When you are doing your work-you don’t really stop to think about its impact, only that you are either satisfied or not.

John: Cristofori’s Dream is your most popular album. What do you feel are the key characteristics about the original Cristofori’s Dream that have made this one of your top selling albums of all time?

David Lanz: There were a number of factors. The timing was right, as radio was very open to the album. The cover version of A Whiter Shade of Pale was a great bridge between pop instrumental and New Age music, and the fact that I had tapped into history by bringing Cristofori’s work and name into the hearts, minds, and ears of the public was a major factor I believe.

John: How are the first and second Cristofori’s Dream albums alike, and in what ways do the two albums vary?

David Lanz: Well, the list of songs is the same, but they have been opened up a bit with variations and improvisation and recorded as solo piano pieces this time, without the extras like strings, synths, percussion, etc.

We have also included several bonus tracks not found on the original and created a 16-page booklet that gets into the making of as well as giving historical background on Cristofori himself.

John: During the early years when you lived in Seattle Washington you played in bands, covering a variety of music genres including Rock, Pop, Jazz and Blues. You are widely recognized as an innovator and new age music superstar by your early recordings. In retrospect, what was the catalyst that began your transition to composing and performing new age music?

David Lanz: As I matured as a musician, and as a spiritually aware human, I looked around to see what I could contribute through my music, and the answer was found in a more introspective music and an attitude that focused on the attributes of healing and relaxation. This was the answer to my question, “What does the world need from me?”

John: I have always felt the Piano is perhaps one of the best instruments to express the depth of oneself on a personal level. What was the connection, or reasons you chose the piano over other instruments?

David Lanz: Well that was pretty simple. Both my grandmother and mother played the piano, and they each had pianos in their homes, so I was exposed to that influence as a child and had a natural curiosity about the piano, which led my mother to get me started with piano lessons before I was even 5 years old.

John: As an original song composer, how do you go about the process of composing solo piano music?

David Lanz: That is a big question. Honestly, every song has its own story of origin. The easiest answer is I sometimes just sit at the piano, and improvise until I play something that catches my ear – and it goes from there. There are times however when something in my life will directly affect me emotionally, and then I am able to transform those feelings into music.

John: What led you to compose Cristofori’s Dream?

David Lanz: There is a great explanation of that in the liner notes of the new recording. The spark, the divine seed if you will for Cristofori’s Dream, was found in Judith Oringer’s book, Passion for the Piano, a gift received from a good friend, and a very fortuitous gift it turned out to be! In the forward of this book about the piano and various pianists throughout history, was a dedication to a one, Bartolomeo Cristofori, “the inventor of the piano.”

You could have knocked me over with a feather! There I stood in the middle of my kitchen, mouth agape, a thirty something year old pianist who had played the piano most of his life, but had never once stopped to consider that the piano had an inventor. Hello!

Immediately upon seeing the name Cristofori, my imagination mimicked the name and whispered in my mind, “Christ-Euphoria,” followed directly by the title, Cristofori’s Dream. This was a defining moment! It was also highly unusual for me, as song titles rarely appear like this, if ever, or precede a composition, almost always coming to me during or even after a piece has been composed.”

John: You have more new releases for 2012 including The Beatles inspired Here Comes The Sun, which is available in two separate versions. Apart from the solo piano and piano with instrumental aspects, what are the style variances in the way they were composed and recorded?

David Lanz: I always arrange my pieces to stand alone as solo piano arrangements. I do usually leave space in my arrangements as a matter of style. This allows the use of other instruments, but the piano always carries the melody and can easily standalone without any other musical embellishment.

John: Liverpool – Re-imagining the Beatles & Here Comes the Sun are both beautiful with exclusive variations in style. What are the distinctions from one another?

David Lanz: Liverpool was recorded pretty much live in the studio with a bit larger cast of musician, including drums and hand percussion, making rhythm a larger part of the sound. On Here Comes The Sun, we have more of a chamber sound with the music being performed on piano cello and flute only.

We referred to ourselves (the 3 of us) as the Liverpool Trio, and performed as the same. Both albums feature primarily the music of Lennon and McCartney, but Here Comes The Sun of course features that wonderful piece from George Harrison as well as an original piece I dedicated to both him and George Martin entitled Sir George-Liverpool Farewell.

John: Clearly The Beatles influence on music worldwide cannot be overstated, but on a personal level, what elements about The Beatles music that compels you to compose and perform their cover songs?

David Lanz: I grew up as a musician and a young composer, being much influenced by the way they composed their songs. I wanted to pass the torch, so to speak, as I have a younger generation of composers who look too my work. I wanted them to see where much of my early influence and inspiration has come from. I believe our early influences really help to shape us in whatever we do in life.

John: How do you make your song selections from the many great albums and songs by The Beatles?

David Lanz: That was a very long process of listening and just trying them out on the piano to see how they laid under my hands. It was a very long labor of love!

John: You also have a brand new songbook titled The David Lanz Collection 2000-2011, which is a special group of songs with a connection to family and friends. Would you like to give the details about this new songbook collection?

David Lanz: it was simply a way to put a few highlights from the last decade of music I’ve composed and recorded into a collection for those folks who may only be exposed to my earlier work from the 80’s and 90’s.

There is a very special piece dedicated to my friend Robbie King, who was a musical mentor and passed away several years ago, leaving us much too soon!

John: Being a prolific artist, there is an endless list of albums to choose from out of your current album collection. For anyone who may be new to your music, what 2 albums would you suggest they sample or purchase from each of your solo piano works and piano with instrumentals?

David Lanz: Skyline Firedance features both solo and ensemble versions of the album’s material. Look at Romantic – The Ultimate David Lanz Collection (a 2-CD set with a nice cross section from the first two decades of material, both solo and ensemble) or Painting The Sun and A Cup of Moonlight are a nice representation at my current solo piano work.

John: Your piano sheet music is quite a hit, and very popular seller too, isn’t that right?

David Lanz: Everywhere I go, I hear from piano teachers that tell me my music is not only popular with their students, but it is easy to teach and laid out well. It makes them look good and everyone is happy. There is now over a quarter of a million books of my music out in the world!

John: That’s impressive to have such a popular selection David! I’ve heard the news you have a new Christmas album for 2012. Can you give the title, and when will you be releasing your new Christmas album?

David Lanz: We are working on having that out by mid-November. This is a solo piano collection of Christmas music entitled Joy Noel.

John: I hope to release additional news for your fans and our readers today if possible. Can you release any news information or perhaps plans for a new album project?

David Lanz: Well, after working on getting 2 new albums released in one year (don’t try that at home!) I will need to take a break and review my next project, which looks to be a solo piano recording. Much of the music is already sketched out, but I imagine I will jump back into to my composing, so stay tuned!

John: You have enjoyed a successful music career practically your entire life. What do you find the most rewarding experience as a professional musician?

David Lanz: Just being able to support my family and myself doing the work I love to do. I love being in the David Lanz business!

John: That’s great David, and I want to thank you again for giving everyone another opportunity to find out more about you, and your newest projects. I hope we can get together by another interview someday. Before we close, is there anything you would like to express to the fans that have supported you over the years?

David Lanz: I am and have been so grateful for the opportunity to express myself in music. To have been so embraced by my fans and other pianists is really overwhelming! I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to do my work and serve the world on my own terms!

Visit DavidLanz.com for news and information about concerts and workshops. Visit the DavidLanz.com Store for CD albums, downloads, and merchandise like DVDs, songbooks and sheet music. Visit the artist section for David Lanz at Amazon. Interview photos courtesy BHP Images, Carole May Images, Kyle Zimmerman & davidlanz.com.

Pre-release Album Review: Believe – A Spiritual Romance by music group 2002 – The 20th year Anniversary Collection.

The year was 1992 when husband and wife team, Randy and Pamela Copus of 2002, began their music careers with the belief they each possessed the talent it takes to become a successful music group. As anyone can imagine the long and winding road to prosperity has not been an easy road to travel as artists, but as others have said before – dreams do come true and success can be yours if you work hard, have faith, and believe in yourself.

Fast-forward twenty years into the future. Winning the admiration of many people along their journey, the year 2012 marks a 20th year anniversary for the award-winning group 2002. Today I can tell you as an instrumental music group, Randy and Pamela Copus have realized their dream by attaining a level of success they first envisioned for themselves 20 years ago.

It’s a great achievement which eludes the majority of artists I write about in the music business. For Randy, Pamela and newest band member and daughter Sarah Copus, their story continues to be an inspiration to those who know them best, including friends and fans of all nationalities.

Believe is the 14th album by Pamela and Randy Copus after releasing their first album as the music duo 2002 in 1992. Associated most often as top artists in the new age music category, the 10 contemporary instrumental songs on Believe is a progressive advancement from earlier releases by a majority of songs containing a variety of rock influences with flowing vocals and lyrical verses you will find inspiring.

Everyone will have their favorite songs on this release, and the great news is you will find many new favorites. Rarely do I hear so many exceptional songs on a single album, and as expected, their relentless attention to quality is present in every detail.

This more progressive style, merged with 2002’s signature sound, was actually a natural advancement for them since Pamela and Randy both began their professional careers playing and singing in bands. With 9 earlier albums making the Billboard Charts for a total of 270 weeks, their new release Believe could position 2002 in Billboard’s Top 10 New Age Chart again. It’s that good!

In the official 2002 newsletter they advised Believe is a departure from earlier releases since 6 songs contain vocals – like earlier songs Free to Fly, Moment of Love, Sarah’s Rainbow, Deep Still Blue & Remember Now. I remember thinking at the time it was a nice gesture to prepare fans about the vocals in an effort to prevent disappointing anyone, but in all honesty, after sampling Believe I now find it hard to imagine anyone not liking this album.

As one of the first to sample the album and write a review for Believe I am happy to report and say with confidence I anticipate that everyone will reach the same conclusion I have – Believe is a hot new release destined to be the best album ever by 2002! As for the artists Randy, Pamela and Sarah, today I am pleased to say their dream is alive and well.

The 10 songs are Believe, A Dream Creation, Chain of Life, We Meet Again, Dreams of Peace, A Change of Season, Ready To Fly, Yeshua, Oasis, Hold the Sky. Sample all songs from Believe at the 2002Music.com sample page.

Visit 2002Music.com and pre-order Believe at the 2002 store at Amazon.com and purchase mp3 digital songs at Amazon and iTunes October 16, 2012. Cover artwork by Taine LeCesne & photos are courtesy 2002music.com.

New Age Album: Patterns of Reflection by Peter Sterling.

With beginning origins of the harp dating back to around 2500 B.C., some might believe the heavenly instrument of ancient times may have fallen out of favor in today’s modern instrumental music scene. Even by today’s standards the acoustic and electronic harp as a stringed solo and orchestral instrument is as popular as it ever was. The celestial harp, with strong religious ties throughout history is legendary for producing beautiful melodies with peaceful, uplifting harmony.

Peter Sterling is widely accepted as one of today’s best harpist in the new age music genre. For over 20 years Peter Sterling has immersed himself in attaining leading prominence as a top professional harpist, who also performs live tours in ensembles and as a premier harp soloist in the United States and countries overseas.

Founding his own Harp Magic Music recording label, Peter Sterling’s twelfth album Patterns of Reflections embraces harp and instrumental music with a pronounced celestial effect as earlier releases The Sands of Time, Harp Magic & Harp Dreams.

Releasing some of his best harp music to date, Patterns of Reflections is a beautiful instrumental album marketed like any other release, but harp music is also tied to a niche market since harp melodies are often used in weddings, memorial services, and other special occasions where relaxing music is requested and appreciated most.

Patterns of Reflection, composed and produced by Peter Sterling, is an expertly layered 16 song collection featuring a contemporary array of peaceful and uplifting harmonies by way of a celestial stringed instrument born centuries ago.

Performing on a contemporary electronic acoustic harp, Peter Sterling and a talented group of artists employ a modern day technique that portray harp and instrumental music with vision and above all, divine inspiration.

Visit HarpMagic.com and buy songs and albums at the Harp Magic music store. Photos are courtesy harpmagic.com.

New Age music group 2002 has a new 2012 release unlike any of their previous albums. The newest project by Randy and Pamela Copus nearing release is titled Believe – A Spiritual Romance. I heard the news firsthand that Believe – A Spiritual Romance is comprised of the signature sound of 2002 music we know and love, yet there are also elements made popular by many of our favorite bands like Kansas, YES, Phil Collins, and Seal.

2002 is a prominent new age band celebrating 20 years of producing hit music. Over the years 2002 have had 9 albums making the Billboard Charts, even sharing the spotlight in a Billboard Magazine Year in Review issue with other top artists like Jim Brickman, Enya, Manheim Steamroller, George Winston and Yanni.

Believe – A Spiritual Romance, with 10 songs is near finalization, so I look to tell you more about the newest album by 2002 soon. Like their Damayanti album, Pamela and Randy’s daughter Sarah is participating on Believe. This newest release by 2002 holds a lot of promise by their blend of relaxing celestial music with popular hit music by legendary bands many of us grew up with ourselves.

Believe – A Spiritual Romance has every hallmark of becoming one of the best 2002 albums to date. The Dreams of Peace song video is one of ten songs with piano, orchestra, alto flute and soft vocals by Pamela, Randy and Sarah Copus. This is their first introduction of the elegant cover artwork for Believe, and I hope to have an exclusive, pre-release album review soon. For news and info visit Pamela, Randy and Sarah at 2002Music.com. Artwork courtesy 2002music.com.

Interview with Mike Oldfield about the London Olympic Opening show.

With the London 2012 Olympics in full swing, the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is still a hot entertainment topic internationally. The evening show in London, made possible by the grand theatrical exploits provided by artistic director Danny Boyle, was impressive show to say the least!

With an estimated audience of a billion people worldwide, the evening performance which included a cast of over 10,000 stage performers was an amazing feat of showbiz in itself. It stands to reason that the Closing Ceremony on August 12, 2012 is expected to be another exceptional evening of entertainment for those in attendance, television viewers, and the athletes of all nationalities themselves.

The Official London Opening Ceremony music for the athletic games has in turn scored an immense victory too, especially for two popular instrumental recording artists, Mike Oldfield and Vangelis. Included among top British acts, new age music is playing an important role since the start of the London 2012 Olympic Games on July 27, 2012.

New Age musician Mike Oldfield was center stage at the opening ceremony during his performance of two of his most popular songs, Tubular Bells & In Dulci Jubilo. The evening simply wouldn’t have been the same without the song playlist including Mike Oldfield and his popular instrumental new age music that spans the continents.

The interview with Mike Oldfield is a recent YouTube video recorded prior to the London 2012 Olympics. During one of his newest interviews, the topic is about Mike Oldfield and how he became involved in the London Olympics after artistic director Danny Boyle sent word to him about performing the two songs Tubular Bells & Dulci Jubilo during the Official Opening Ceremonies.

For the latest news on Mike Oldfield including his new retrospective collection album, Two Sides – The Very Best of Mike Oldfield, and his live stage performance at the 2012 London Olympics visit MikeOldfieldOfficial.com. Photos courtesy YouTube  & Amazon.

New Age and World Music News Blog – 2014.

When it comes to site popularity, New Age Music World is one of the best international new age music blogs worldwide. Here I provide exclusive music news and on-topic press coverage for artists in the New Age, World, and Instrumental music genres.

While it’s impossible for me to provide news reporting for every artist, I do what I can to tell visitors about some of the most newsworthy events by today’s most popular artists and music organizations within the two genres and sub-genre categories.

Every year I provide news reporting on several best album award ceremonies by high profile organizations like the GRAMMY® Awards, Billboard Magazine, and Independent Music Awards.

Another exclusive award article at this site is my yearly New Age Music World – Best New Age Albums Award publication. Every New Year’s Day I report on the best new albums and new songs I have reviewed or sampled throughout the year.

In addition, I regularly write a best album awards publication related to Zone Music Reporter’s Best Album Awards, and offer exclusive news coverage by a variety of articles about a specific artist or group who have received award recognition for their music.

Regardless of whether an award is determined by voting members, album sales, popular choice, online radio airtime or broadcaster votes, each organization I write articles about, including my own, is an excellent source to find the latest news about top artists worldwide and the best new music available today.

This latest international music news publication at my blog is an efficient way for me to provide music news reporting, and provide coverage for a variety of topics or events, ranging from concert tour dates and information by popular instrumental artists who perform international concert tours. This also allows me to inform visitors about top 10, and top 100 radio chart information, along with top albums at Amazon, iTunes, and other on-topic music news stories.

Current updates to this music news article will be added as they arrive. On future visits to Music World, you can check for news updates to this publication by clicking on the “International Music News Banner” located in a right hand module. Naturally I invite you to visit my homepage.

Blog New Age Music WorldThe tabs at the top of my site will direct you to various sections including my profile, interviews, new music reviews, music awards, song videos and additional music news about the international artists I feature on a regular basis.

In the modules located on your right, you will find various module banners which link to specific articles. Some of the most popular banners publications are the Best Album Awards and Best New Music in 2012 banners. Other popular banner articles are Interviews, Live Concert Tour Information, and Music Promotion.

I also feature a Live 365 Stars Radio Player, operated by B.T. Fasmer, who often gives the artists I feature, free online radio promotion. The 365 Stars station radio player is free to use, or like all radio stations at Live 365 Internet Radio, you can listen to thousands of commercial free music stations when you sign up for a low cost VIP subscription at Live365.com.

Nearly every day I receive press releases from music promoters, producers, artists, and their public relations persons regarding an artist or music group’s latest press news or their latest publicized events worldwide.

I know many international artists personally so many times I can provide early news reporting by this news bulletin before an artist’s official press release. I look forward to providing exclusive music news coverage in the months and years ahead. Thank You for your return visits to New Age Music World, one of the top nonprofit music blogs worldwide. BigStockPhoto.com credits – Pcummings – MOKreations – Alexwhite.

Worldwide Music News Blog 2013 – New Age, World and Instrumental Music Genres:
Sochi, Russia: The Olympic Organizing Committee for the upcoming 2014 Winter Games has announced the official anthem for the Olympic Torch Relay. The song titled We Are All Under the Sky, performed by the band Kasta, will be performed in all 2,900 towns and villages Russia hosting official Olympic Torch Relay celebrations, held prior to the Opening Ceremony for the Olympic Winter Games on February 7, 2014. Read the official press release at Olympic.org. – See more at: http://www.newagemusicworld.com/new-age-music-news-blog/?preview=true&preview_id=15619&preview_nonce=11e13fea1a#sthash.F0JmVdqd.dpuf
  • International concert and recording celebrity artist Yanni is the most recent music artist to be interviewed at New Age Music World. This newest Yanni Interview contains news and information about the members of his elite orchestra, new album Inspirato, and Yanni’s plans for the future. I am pleased to present my exclusive Yanni Interview.
  • Sochi Russia: As stated earlier, there will most likely not be an album or soundtrack for the Sochi Olympic Opening Ceremony. There is another album of official Sochi Olympic music available for purchase however. The group Audiomachine produced the inspiring promotional music for the NBC Network and the International Olympic Committee in promotion for the Sochi Olympics in 2014. Find where to sample and purchase the Audiomachine album Champions Will Rise in the publication titled: Official Olympic Music by Audiomachine.
  • Sochi, Russia: Many are asking whether there is an album of official Olympic Opening Ceremony music. The songs performed during the Opening Ceremony will most likely, not be released. However there is an album, anthems and songs for official Olympic music. I have a list of Sochi Olympic songs and anthems in the publication titled: Sochi Olympics – Artists Songs and Events.
  • Yanni World Tour – 2014:  International concert artist Yanni and his world-class orchestra have released new concert information at Yanni.com.  There are several concert dates currently scheduled for the 2014 tour include Brazil, United Kingdom, Germany, Russia and United States. New concert info and tour updates for the Yanni World Tour in 2014 can be found on the Yanni Tour Dates Page.
  • America’s 56th GRAMMY® Award-Winners were announced. Read about Laura Sullivan who made top honors by winning the Best New Age Music Album Award. Sample or purchase the winning album Love’s River at Laura-Sullivan.com. Find more Grammy Awards information in the categories of New Age, World and Score Soundtrack For Visual Media in my section named Grammy Awards.
  • The GRAMMY® Nominees Compilation Album for 2013 with 22 songs by 22 artists is now available in the formats of CD or album download. Find information at 2013GrammyAlbum.com.
  • Read Music World’s yearly best albums recommendations from 2012 in the electronic, instrumental and new age categories by clicking the upper Awards and Best Albums tabs.
  • American multi-platinum artist Nick Gunn and vocalist Carmen Rainier have begun producing an exciting mix of electronic dance music by the artist title of (We Are) Nexus. Sample their original club mixes of EDM at WeAreNexusEDM.com.
  • Scottish singer Susan Boyle has a new album titled Standing Ovation: The Greatest Songs From The Stage. Her rise to stardom after the TV reality show Britain’s Got Talent is a phenomenal success story. You can sample or purchase Standing Ovation at the U.S. and UK Amazon websites, major online stores, or visit SusanBoyleMusic.com.
  • Sarah Brightman News for 2014. In a press conference Sarah Brightman announced information related to her newest album Dreamchaser, upcoming World Concert Tour, and details of her future spaceflight to the International Space Station. For complete news details and 2014 concert information visit SarahBrightman.com.
  • Flutist Nicholas Gunn recently announced his new 2012 album Thirty-One Nights is on the Voting Ballot for Nomination in the 55th Annual GRAMMY® Awards in the World Music Category. Sample or purchase Thirty-One Nights at NicholasGunn.com.
  • There are several popular U.S. based artists I will be interviewing in the months ahead. The high profile artists scheduled include guitarist Eric Tingstad, pianist David Lanz and flutist Nicholas Gunn. Check back in the days ahead, and read earlier interviews with top ranked artists my Interview Section.
  • The U.S. music duo 2002 has a new 2012 release unlike any previous album. The newest project by Randy and Pamela Copus titled Believe has the signature sound of 2002 music we know and love, yet there are elements of music by popular era bands like Kansas, YES, Phil Collins, and Seal. It has every hallmark of becoming their best albums to date. A pre-release album review will be posted soon.
  • London Paralympic Opening Music 2012: Enlightenment – Music for the Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Paralympic Games is the album title of the official Paralympic song playlist for the opening ceremonies. Sample or purchase the 18 songs on Enlightenment at iTunes.com.
  • London Olympic Closing Music 2012: A Symphony of British Music – Music For The Closing Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is the album title of the official Olympic song playlist for the closing ceremonies. The songs release in (digital format only) was made available on August 12, 2012 at DeccaRecords.com. Purchase by pre-ordering A Symphony of British Music at Amazon.co.uk.
  • London Olympic Opening Music 2012: Isles of Wonder – Music For The Opening Ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games is the album title of the official Olympic song playlist for the opening ceremonies. Purchase Isles of Wonder at Amazon.co.uk, iTunes or Decca Records.
  • Greek composer Vangelis has two new releases in 2012. Vangelis – The Collection and a new soundtrack for the Olympic themed theatrical Chariots of Fire (On Stage) play, made available in July, 2012. Find both titles in audio CD and digital download format at Amazon.co.uk and other online stores.
  • U.S. based producer Will Ackerman is an artist I recently interviewed. Read about the esteemed artist and record producer in the exclusive 2012 in-depth interview with Will Ackerman.
  • Progressive rock group YES from the UK has released new 2014 concert information. With over 50 million albums sold worldwide, YES remains a leader in progressive rock music. Check the current 2014 YES tour schedule at YesWorld.com.
  • Germany based group Alphaville has the 2014 concert tour schedule posted at their site. The highly successful pop electronic/synthesizer music of Alphaville has sold well over 80 million albums. Having earlier performed concert tours in Brazil, France, Germany, Hungary, Norway, Russia, Singapore , Sweden, and the United States, Alphaville is a favorite electronic pop group with millions of fans worldwide. Visit the Alphaville.de Tour Page for Alphaville Concerts in 2014.
  • Sony Masterworks has released The Goat Rodeo Sessions (Live) on DVD and Blu-Ray, featuring Yo-Yo Ma, Stuart Duncan, Edgar Meyer, Chris Thile, and guest vocalist Aoife O’Donovan. The live recording was also filmed for a future PBS Special to air nationwide in May, and pledge drive program scheduled throughout the month of June on PBS.
  • Bulgarian based artist Bryan El, who specializes in electronic music has released a brand new album follow-up to Out of This World & Spiritual Evolution. The newest album by Bryan El is titled Boundaries Of Imagination. Find more details at BryanEl.com.
  • California based artist Mars Lasar is currently working on a sequel to Karma. Mars Lasar’s newest follow-up release is called Afterworld. You can also check out his new website at MarsLasar.com.
  • Artists worldwide: If you are an artist looking for a music promoter to help market your newest album, I now have a contact list of the marketing specialists I know personally, who offer promotional services. Artists can find their contact information in my article titled; New Age & World Music Promotions.
  • To find live concert tour info worldwide in the new age, world, electronic, and instrumental music genres check my Live Concert Tours in 2014 information section.
  • U.S. based artist Australis is offering a free digital download called Interlude, which is a music sampler of his entire discography to current new age album Sentient Genus. Find the free music download and purchase his albums at AustralisMusic.com.
  • International site visitors to Music World can find the newest 2014 albums in the new age, world, electronic, and instrumental music genres, in a news publication titled Best New Music Albums in 2014.
New Age Instrumental Album Review – Awakening by F.E.D.

Frantz Eddy Daniel Jr. who goes by F.E.D. is raising eyebrows by the release of his debut album Awakening. I have to admit I am among a number of review publicists who believe Frantz Eddy Daniel Jr. is a serious contender in the music recording industry. I dare say his debut album Awakening even has award-winning potential.

Awakening by F.E.D. is music like Yanni, Vangelis, and Hans Zimmer, to you an example of his style. It may also be why Awakening is getting the highest album ratings from reviewers, and the rise in popularity of Frantz Eddy Daniel’s music.

It’s easy to compare F.E.D. to these famous cinematic music composers, but this debuting artist’s instrumental music is, as other have expressed, quite exclusive and one of a kind. Two years in the making, the 12 original songs on Awakening are a dazzling blend of electronic instrumentals, with romantic and classical overtones.

Frantz Eddy Daniel Jr. or F.E.D. is already an established, award-winning artist in many respects, having won awards at the World Championships of Performing Arts, International Music Award for best composition, and Music Aid Organization.

Born and raised in Port au-Prince Haiti, Frantz Eddy Daniel Jr. now resides in New York City, where he is extending his career and instrumental new age music that is stylishly deep and mysterious, yet energetic and dreamy. This sophisticated and complex arrangement combination is never easy to achieve, even for top ranked artists with years of experience.

I personally don’t rate music by giving a rating assessment of “Top 10 Albums” or “5 Stars” and “My Highest Recommendation” but Awakening is one of the best new age instrumental, popular crossover debut albums I have heard in awhile. And there are many album reviewers who agree.

If  you love the music style that sounds like Yanni, Vangelis, and Hans Zimmer, then Frantz Eddy Daniel Jr.’s Awakening album may be the next 12 song collection of instrumental new age music to make your all-time favorite song playlist.

Visit Fed-Music.com to sample and purchase or find F.E.D. at CDBaby.com. Cover art & banner courtesy fed-music.com.

New Age Piano Music: Masako Album Review.

It’s a fact that every artist is characterized as a debuting artist upon the release of their first album. To some, the term debut may suggest negative connotations or a lack of experience, but I believe the majority of people know an artist’s debut simply means they have made available, and distributed their first album to the public.

Masako is the name of a composing pianist making a debut with her first, self-titled piano with instrumental album called Masako. Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, composing pianist Masako is a perfect example of a music professional with decades of experience prior to the first official introduction of her music. In fact, if I hadn’t known firsthand the original piano with instrumental music on Masako’s 2012 album was a debut release, I never would have guessed it.

Composing pianist Masako has released an extraordinary instrumental album with every hallmark of a seasoned professional. In fact, two highly respected artists, Will Ackerman and Liz Story themselves have release press comments about Masako’s abilities affirming her skill level is equated to that of a virtuoso. And I agree.

The Masako album was produced by Will Ackerman at his Imaginary Road Studio. Recognized for the excellence in his talents, Will Ackerman produced this album at Imaginary Road Studio, but needless to say, a producer can only enhance by bringing out the best of an artist’s talents. It’s clear, composing pianist Masako herself gives a magnificent performance, and her arrangement design of piano with instrumental music deserves to be characterized as a world-class release.

There are 12 songs total on the new Masako album, which easily passes the litmus test, in regards to the quality of music she produced, and alike in comparison to those who have rose among the top ranking artists that are associated with Will Ackerman’s Imaginary Road Studio. Masako’s song titled Glastenbury, Vermont was also selected for the top playlist of songs on the newest 2012 compilation CD by Will Ackerman entitled The Gathering.

Masako’s first introduction album is an impressive one and the term debut artist no longer applies. The only instance of where her status as a debuting artist applies now is perhaps when categorized, as the highest rated debut artist or for a best new artist of the year award. In either event, I believe Masako would be pleased to have her first release designated as a new debut album in either category.

The majority of the 12 songs on the Masako album are solo piano arrangements, or duets and ensemble, with an emphasis on piano. Top raking artist selected for the Masako album are Eugene Friesen (cello), Tony Levin (bassist), Jill Haley (English horn), Premik (wind synthesizer), and Jeff Haynes (percussion).

Visit Masako-Music.com to sample or purchase and find Masako album at iTunes. Portrait courtesy beltramistudios.com.

Memorial Day is an official federal holiday, in remembrance of Americans who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The military branches of the U.S.A.F. are comprised of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Forces and the Coast Guard.

Craig Karolus is an independent new age artist whose music I reviewed recently, but Craig Karolus also served in the U.S. Armed Forces for eight years of duty as a medic in the U.S. Army. One day prior to today’s Memorial Day Holiday 2012, he posted a song tribute in remembrance to U.S. veterans.

Honoring American men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice, here is a new YouTube song video titled Veterans. The music video of Veterans consists of formal ceremonial footage at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

With a backdrop of soldiers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Arlington National Cemetery, the song Veterans begins with trumpet and percussion, before a crescendo to complete orchestra sound, until the closing refrain. The tribute music video Veterans couldn’t be more appropriate. Likewise we salute all United States service members at home and abroad.

Craig Karolus has released two albums. The first is titled Standing On Top and his newest album in 2012 is Family Values. Visit CraigKarolus.com and Craig’s YouTube channel. Photo and video courtesy craigkarolus.com.

Kitaro music fans are sure to be excited about the newest Kitaro album in 2012. Even if they have already heard the Kitaro album entitled The Light Of The Spirit in its original recording format back in 1997, the newly remastered audio CD or mp3 is worth looking into by its superior musical qualities.

If you haven’t sampled The Light Of The Spirit, you are in for a surprise. The 8 cinematic songs by the international new age superstar Kitaro happen to be co-produced with the rock legend Grateful Dead percussionist Mickey Hart, who is a music innovator himself, and during studio recordings and concert performances with his tour group the Mickey Hart Band.

Kitaro and Mickey Hart are GRAMMY® Award-winning artists revered individually for producing releases that explore a wide range of music influences. One example of their diversity is The Light Of The Spirit. The 8 songs on Kitaro’s new album The Light Of The Spirit are; Mysterious Encounter, Sundance, The Field, The Light of the Spirit, In The Beginning, Moondance, Howling Thunder, Journey To A Fantasy. Visit the Domo Music Group page to sample the newest album by Kitaro.

New Age Album Review: Dreams of The Forest.

Cinematic music made for the movie industry is in a class of its own, providing charm and realism in which ingenious music compositions become an inherent part of the film itself.

The appropriate cinematic music score can transform a motion picture into something greater than a series of moving images. With the right melodic touch, cinematic music scores and movie soundtracks can create vibrant memories thru association, which bring the movie film characters to life.

New Age pianist Marc Enfroy is an award-winning artist known for his expertise with producing instrumental piano music in a comparable elegance to some of the most accomplished and best cinematic music producers today. Marc Enfroy’s special touch as a new age instrumental music composer is apparent in his newest cinematic piano release entitled Dreams of The Forest.

Dreams of The Forest is an amazing cinematic piano release made to touch the senses. Stated as his most ambitious project to date, Marc Enfroy masterfully creates a dramatic mood of enchantment you’ll want to experience over and over again. With esteemed artists Jack Chen on flute, and GRAMMY® Award-winning studio engineer Corin Nelsen, Dreams of The Forest is a quality album comprised with a trio of top music professionals.

Marc Enfroy’s third release Unconditional is an inspirational array of piano and contemporary instrumentals made to embrace life in a moving way. Unconditional is in the same contemporary resemblance as his instrumental piano album Awakening, but it was Marc’s solo piano debut album Unbounded, which initiated his award-winning music career. Unbounded achieved unbridled success by acquiring the Best Neo-Classical Album award in the ZMR Lifestyle Music Awards in 2008, along with earning Marc Enfroy nomination for Best New Artist at ZMR.

Dreams of The Forest is extraordinary cinematic music given the animated, yet true to life representation it conveys. While countless artists are capable of producing music scores suitable for the ending credits of a motion picture as they slowly roll on by, Dreams of The Forest is an emotionally compelling musical canvas designed with the authentic sensibilities of a real life drama.

Visit MarcEnfroy.com to sample or purchase at his music store or visit major online retailers. Marc Enfroy’s release will be available June 12, 2012. Starting May 17, 2012, pre-order CDs at MarcEnfroy.com. Photos are courtesy marcenfroy.com.

Marc Enfroy: New Age Piano Music – Cinematic Song Sample.

Cinematic music made for the movie industry is in a class of its own, providing charm and realism in which ingenious music compositions become an inherent part of the film itself. With the right touch, cinematic music scores and movie soundtracks can create vibrant memories thru association, and bring the movie’s film characters to life.

New Age pianist Marc Enfroy is an award-winning artist recognized for his expertise in blending elegant instrumental piano music with moving orchestral arrangements on the same level as the most accomplished artists and best music producers of today. Marc Enfroy’s special touch as a composer is clear in his newest release entitled Dreams of The Forest.

Dreams of The Forest is an amazing cinematic piano release made for the senses. Marc Enfroy masterfully creates a dramatic mood of enchantment you’ll want to experience over and over again. Joined by esteemed artists Jack Chen on flute, and GRAMMY® Award-winning studio engineer Corin Nelsen, it’s obvious on first listen that Dreams of The Forest was expertly crafted by top music professionals.

Marc Enfroy’s fourth studio album, Dreams of The Forest is an extraordinary cinematic project given the elegant, true to life representation it conveys. Characterized by a serene nuance, Marc Enfroy has produced an imaginary and emotionally compelling musical canvas laced with the kind of passionate, authentic sensibilities found in real life drama. Dreams of the Forest could very well be Marc Enfroy’s next award-winning album!

Visit MarcEnfroy.com to sample or purchase at his music store or visit major online retailers. Below is a music video sample of the song Miracle in the Glade. Marc Enfroy’s release will be available on June 12, 2012. Starting May 17, 2012, you may pre-order CDs at MarcEnfroy.com. Photos are courtesy marcenfroy.com.

New Age Music Review: Sounds from the Circle IV – Fourth CD/mp3 Album for 2012.

Sounds from the Circle IV is the fourth New Age Music Circle album release for 2012. Like many members within the New Age Music Circle online community, I too look forward to the newest compilation album of 40 songs because it is after all, one of the most significant new age music releases in 2012.

The New Age Music Circle, host by Suzanne Doucet, is an international online community forum and discussion platform where top new age artists, industry professionals, and music fans alike can share music, videos, and post information about special events. Membership is open to anyone who would like to join and participate in forum dialogue that covers a wide range of topics.

Aside from the fact the songs on Sounds from the Circle IV is one of the best song collection of new age music in 2012, the wide-ranging sampling of songs from various artists is a great way to promote the member artists at the New Age Music Circle. The release is distributed to online radio, media and music retailers, in addition to international trade shows, conferences and prestigious industry events like INATS, MIDEM and GATE.

Suzanne Doucet produced the fourth mp3 album CD by circle forum members, that contains 40 songs and holds over three and a half hours of music. The CD can be played in mp3 compatible CD players or in computer CD-ROM drives, which downloads into an iTunes player. In addition the newest album can be purchased and downloaded on iTunes.

The new Sounds from the Circle IV song compilation album also gives me an opportunity to tell you about some of the top artists on the new 2012 release I have featured by a review, interview, or best new age song, album, or video publication.

One aspect about the newest Sounds from the Circle compilation that remains unchanged is the fact the new for 2012 release is a perfect example of the far reaching diversity of the artists and their influence in the New Age Music Genre. The wide variety of styles heard on the 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2012 releases include acoustic, ambient, chill out, classical, contemporary instrumental, electronic, ethnic, groove, meditation, neo-classical, piano, progressive, world, and vocal.

Once more, the newest song collection on the Sounds from the Circle release features international artists from many countries including Argentina, Australia, Canada, Denmark, England, Germany, Norway, Spain, the United States, and other countries worldwide.

Over the years, New Age Music World has featured 10 out of the 40 artists on Sounds from the Circle releases by way of an album review. In fact, 2002, AOMusic, Hennie Bekker and Louis Colaiannia have earlier recognition by inclusion in my best album award publications.

I had the pleasure of interviewing four artists on the new Sounds from the Circle IV compilation CD, so you can read artist interviews for Pamela and Randy Copus of 2002, Al Conti, Miriam Stockly and Richard Gannaway of AOMusic, and a comprehensive interview with New Age Music Circle host Suzanne Doucet. Naturally I would have liked to write album reviews for every artist in this years CD/mp3 album and interview every artist featured at my site, but time simply doesn’t permit me to write about every artist.

Below are the artist name, song and album of artists on Sounds from the Circle IV featured at New Age Music World over the years. To visit their artist page here, and visit their site, click on artist name shown in a right hand module.

1. 2002Randy & Pamela Copus– Song Enduring Love from the Damayanti album.

2. Al Conti – Song Northern Seas from the Northern Seas album.

3. AOMusic – Song Gayla Lo Mane from the album …And Love Rages On!

4. Bill Wren & Frank Ralls – Song Winter Solstice from the album Jourey Around The Sun.

5. Hennie Bekker – Song The Heart of Africa from the album Spectrum.

6. Jose Luis Serrano Esteban – Song Inner Light from the album A New Horizon (Special Edition).

7. Louis Collaiannia – Song Desert Wind from the album A Moment Between Eternities.

8. Peter Jennison – Song The One from the album Longing for Home.

9. Suzanne Doucet – Song Arunachala from the album As it is Now.

10. Tron Syversen – Song Gentle Touch from the Album – Gentle Moments.

Contributing artists also include Ken Davis, Danny Wright, Berward Koch, Torben Thorger & Vibeke Sonora, Michael de Salem, Michele de Wilton, Amberfern, Cheryl Bentyne, Tim White & Joe Paulino, Lia Scallon, Walter Grund, Richard Bone, Glenn Main, Pamela Jamian, Kevin Kula, Jaime Helios, Craig Karolus, Merrill Collins, John Luttrell, Mala Ganguly & David Vito Gregoli, Synthesist, John Salat, Kparx, Elise Lebec, Tajalli, Zamora, Aum Orchestra, Paradiso & Rasamayi, Natascha Wilczek, John Paris.

Visit Suzanne Doucet and New Age Music Circle members at NewAgeMusik.Ning.com. You can sample and purchase Sounds from the Circle IV at iTunes. Cover artwork courtesy Suzanne Doucet & New Age Music Circle.

Being a new age music reviewer, publicist and interview host, I often consider the puzzling question, what is new age music? It’s a perplexing question, even without taking into account the numerous music influences and sub-genres. More often than not, artists prefer not to be categorized by their music compositions which add yet another piece to the puzzle.

While I feel the “what is new age music” question is largely dependent upon an individual’s viewpoint to a degree, there are of course, a number of basic facts about the new age music genre to consider. As a music reviewer, I like to think of whether the songs are in a style or music category most people will find compelling or inspirational being a good indicator, regardless of tempo. Music made for relaxation, sleep and nature sounds are also an enhancing characterization to the overall new age classification.

Defining the new age music genre to one hundred percent accuracy is more than a challenge, it is nearly impossible, similar to assigning a single definition to all popular music genres. In my view, music is like a work of art, where individual perception is more important than organizing all the variable pieces into the ready-made design it is supposed to represent.

With that said, here are 2 Wikipedia pages that should prove helpful. The first page gives a definition for new age music, and the second page shows a partial list of new age music artists associated with the genre. Photo is courtesy Ihfgraphics.

A New Horizon – Special Edition by José Luis Serrano Esteban.

José Luis Serrano Esteban, a new age guitarist from Spain, is enjoying time at the Top 10 Zone Music Reporter Radio Chart the past couple of months. Esteban is off to a great start with his release titled A New Horizon (Special Edition), which has held ZMR’s #2 Top 10 Radio Chart position during January and February of 2012.

José Luis Serrano Esteban is a composer and multi-instrumentalist who studied classical guitar and electronic music. Esteban is skilled on a number of instruments including piano, keyboards, percussion instruments and programming, but guitar appears to be his specialty, performing on Spanish classical guitar, acoustic, 12 string, and a collection of different acoustic and electric guitars.

Esteban has released over 100 music compositions, each in a wide variety of styles that range from classical, electronic, new age, world and rock music.

Along with his own cinematic recordings, Esteban is a guitar and electronic specialist in other artist’s CD recordings and audio video scores too, composing music for commercials, demo tapes, and soundtrack scores for television documentaries. José Luis Serrano Esteban is the second Spanish composer who has signed with Landscape TV, an audio visual media station in the UK called Landscape HD productions. His first New Age Musica video was released in 2011.

A New Horizon (Special Edition) is an adventurous blend of classical and electronic rock music with several songs in near representation style to iconic band Tangerine Dream.

The re-issue of A New Horizon (Special Edition) has 16 songs, two of which are new bonus tracks. Nearly touching a dream & Vida (Life) have a pleasant atmosphere and pleasing feel of warmth, like the consistent qualities you will experience on the entire album.

The essentials of José Luis Serrano Esteban’s music with composing, producing and recording A New Horizon (Special Edition) himself is the likeness of refined recording of songs with near qualities of what you hear on many of Will Ackerman productions.

Esteban has a natural ability for pairing electronic and acoustic guitar with violin, piano and flute into serene instrumental songs. Together he and the additional artists from Spain have reintroduced a picturesque landscape across a new horizon.

On A New Horizon (Special Edition), some pieces were performed with instrumentalists Nacho Serrano (Bass and 12 string acoustic guitars), Cristobal Caballero (double bass), Nuria Felix (violin), Santiago Puente (clarinet), Gloria Esteban (flute), Carlos Calvo (flute) and Covadonga Serrano (piano).

Visit JlseMusic.com to sample or purchase and find at his Amazon.com page. Cover artwork courtesy jlsemusic.com.

New Age Music is a popular music genre, but sometimes an overlooked genre when searching for the best new music available. Being the website host of a popular new age music blog, independent artists, promoters and producers continually send me new music for review each year.

This collection of the best new music in 2012 gives me an opportunity to tell my visitors about popular new music in the new age music genre, plus subcategories like contemporary instrumental, progressive rock, electronic, neo classical, ambient, piano, relaxation, chill out, groove, vocal, and world music.

New Age Music World is pleased to be a helpful source for website visitors searching for top quality music. Writing about today’s top artists in the new age music genre is my specialty, and I can tell you that artists in the new age music industry have already begun producing some of the best new songs and albums in 2012.

The album cover art shown below are a sample of the newest music CDs sent to me for possible review so far this year. From the albums below I select new music for my review section. I feel you will find many of these new albums of interest. Over the course of a year, some of these albums will make the top 100 new age radio charts and top 10 radio chart listings. Some new music will eventually become award winning albums or award nominated albums as the year progresses.

The year 2012 is already shaping up to be another great year for some of the best new music produced by some of today’s top new age instrumental artists. You can sample the newest songs at my site, and read about many new releases in 2012 on my reviews page, and read a recent award article about the best new age albums from 2011.

Visit Amazon to find new album releases and the best-selling albums. Visit iTunes for the top 10 albums and top 10 songs. Check my reviews section for more of the best new music in 2012, and publication about the best new age albums in 2011. Big Stock Photo – Devulderj.

Best New Music in 2012;

 

O Great Spirit by Asher QuinnHidden Journey by Scott AugustRenewal by Kyle PedersonInvocation by Ty BurhoeFuture Memory by Stephen SavageSacred Songs by Asher QuinnDal Segno by Francois CoutureImprovisations for Cello and Piano by David DarlingStar Journey by Yantara JiroSongs to the Goddess by Annette CantorLifegivers by Joanne ShenandoahBloom by Dan KasselThe Traveller by TribaliSoplo De Vida by Daniela De MariIsland of the Sylvan Mermaids by DOVKingdom of the Heart by DOVVisions by Uwe GronauForrest Vision by Nicholas BridgmanHidden Journey by Scott AugustAll The Things by Michael WhalenFirst Light by Craig UrquhartLight of Aluna by AnimaBy Myself by Charley RichWolf Moon Rising by WolfsheartPaisatges by Roma AlonsoUpon The Edge Of Night by Robert Scott ThompsonSanctuary Earth by Sherry FinzerFree Flow Steelpan Meditations by Joseph Peck

Legendary musician Kitaro continues the time honored tradition of bringing his ageless instrumental classics to millions of fans worldwide. The year 2012 is after all, much like another other year in the past, where fans of popular new age music can find many selections of the best new albums and songs all from a man who goes by the name Kitaro.

The fascinating story of Kitaro is legendary. Beginning his music career over 30 years ago, Kitaro’s intriguing journey to prominence arose with the release of his first album entitled Astral Voyage back in 1978.

Crossing many milestones along the way, Kitaro is a true innovator who remains in the forefront of the music recording industry today, just as he was the vanguard in the new age music scene years ago.

Fans of Kitaro know his discography has not only increased in volume, but has increased in popularity as time goes by too. In recent years to the present, some of the best new music from Kitaro has progressed in diversity more than ever, but the admiration for his work is at all times constant. It may leave many of us wondering what motivates or inspires him.

Sacred Journey of Ku-Kai – Volume 4 from 2010 is one of his best albums in the Ku-Kai series. The 4 CD Sacred Journey of Ku-Kai album collection is inherently monumental, and in an exclusive class by itself. The motivation for Kitaro’s Ku-Kai series as many fans may know arose after the global events on the fateful day of September 11, 2001.

On 9/11 Kitaro was on a jet from Japan traveling en route to Los Angeles when the transcontinental flight was diverted to Hawaii for 5 days due to the tragedy. It was during this time of disbelief and uncertainty Kitaro envisioned the Ku-Kai series as a means of uniting the world by music embracing a universal message of peace.

Peace thru music is not a new concept on the surface, but I, like other people find his personal belief and inner conviction with producing Sacred Journey of Ku-Kai, an honorable concept of peace and unity that is profound nonetheless.

The Sacred Journey of Ku-Kai series is an earthly travel that transports the listener to 88 sacred temples located on Shikoku Island in Japan. The music is a serene journey in its own right. The true to life excursion made over 1100 years ago on Shikoku Island in Japan endures to this day.

The music in Kitaro’s modern day journey has an itinerary of refined harmony made for reflection. Every instrumental song on the series is comprised of bells from one of the holy temples, integrated into the series with Kitaro’s internal vision of peaceful harmony in music and in life shown externally. It may be why many consider  Sacred Journey of Ku-Kai series the best new albums by Kitaro.

Nearly every day I describe an artist’s album and its qualities, but rarely do I focus or reveal the intrinsic motivation of an artist’s instrumental creation. Ku-Kai series Vol. 1, Vol. 2, Vol. 3 & Vol. 4 earned Kitaro a GRAMMY® Nomination in the Best New Age Album category, which basically speaks for itself. The admiration for Kitaro and his music that unites the world is, of all things, real and constant.

Sacred Journey of Ku-Kai  – Vol. 4 has 8 songs titled; Lotus Mountain, Yakushi, Magic Seeds, Reflection Of Water, South Wind, Circle Pray, Requiem & Ritual Winds. I have the privilege of interviewing Kitaro in the near future. During our interview I hope to reveal the central element that inspires one of the top instrumental music producers today.

Visit the Domo Music Group Kitaro pages to sample or purchase Kitaro’s music, and then visit DomoMusicGroup.com. Read Kitaro’s Ku-Kai page at Domo Music Group for more about this special series. Photos courtesy domomusicgroup.com.

Music of every popular genre is a stimulus that is proven to touch our emotions in a variety of ways. This broad statement has been recited well enough that everyone should be in agreement, knowing firsthand that music can induce sensations and emotional responses from exhilaration to melancholy, and every emotion in-between. Some songs can relax a person to the point it will lull them to sleep.

The Liquid Mind Musical Healthcare® experience developed by Emmy® nominated songwriter and recording artist Chuck Wild, is one of today’s most advanced forms of music designed specifically for sound relaxation and sleep therapy.

Of the 11 best-selling Liquid Mind albums, Dream: A Liquid Mind Experience is the newest relaxation album from Los Angeles based composer, Chuck Wild, a 2009 recipient of a President’s Award from the American Music Therapy Association.

Relax: A Liquid Mind Experience is another sleep enhancing album by Chuck Wild that spent 71 consecutive weeks in Billboard Magazine Top 10 New Age Chart.

Chuck Wild of Liquid Mind is a top recording artist with over 30 years of experience in the music industry. During his lengthy tenure, Chuck Wild has composed over 125 songs, some of which were employed in the television and film industry. Many of you may already be familiar with him like I was since Chuck is a popular artist associated with the high profile groups Missing Persons, Paula Abdul, Frank Zappa, the late Michael Jackson, and a host of top-ranked, pop music icons.

Relax: A Liquid Mind Experience is a Best Selling New Age Album at Amazon, and Liquid Mind VIII: Sleep, was recently the #1 album in the U.S Top Ten New Age Chart at iTunes. This is in direct correlation to his top-ranking status as an artist.

Dream: A Liquid Mind Experience, on the Real Music Label, is a popular Liquid Mind album getting a wide awake, positive yes response from Billboard and iTunes in 2012. Liquid Mind relaxation albums have consistently made the Top 10 Album charts and Top 10 Song charts at Billboard and iTunes.

Chuck Wild is a musician, and not a physician, so he doesn’t make scientific claims about his calm music for relaxation therapy. However his composing techniques do involve non-rhythm, musical metrics and specific filtering of mid and high range frequencies to achieve like physical responses of scientifically supported research. Developed to treat his individual anxiety disorder, the free flowing music is a stimulus intended to help direct other people into a calming state of relaxation. Perhaps his peaceful music will help you get to sleep too.

Even the title Liquid Mind suggests an orchestration that carries a balanced cloud of relaxation. It is like a mental picture portraying his calming song melodies in the form of two words. Perfect for people who like to experience the full spectrum music has to offer, the focus on made for relaxation music is crystal clear.

Liquid Mind albums may or may not put you to sleep, but once you experience the balanced sound qualities for yourself, an image of comforting music that floats weightlessly in your mind becomes even clearer.

Visit LiquidMindMusic.com and sample or purchase his albums and digital downloads at RealMusic.com or Amazon.com. You can get a free mp3 of the song Serenity from the Liquid Mind V: Serenity release.  Photos are courtesy Chuck Wild.

Chuck Wild of Liquid Mind is the artist behind his best-selling Liquid Mind albums made for relaxation. While Liquid Mind albums are popular arrangements made specifically for relaxation and sleep, every one of the 11 Liquid Mind albums is perfect for yoga and massage. Developed by Emmy® nominated songwriter and recording artist Chuck Wild, Liquid Mind is synonymous with health, wellness, and relaxation.

Liquid Mind IX: Lullaby is one of the many releases Chuck Wild produced in his Liquid Mind Musical Healthcare® series. His advanced forms of music have universal appeal by the various benefits with health related conditions related to wellness.

Liquid Mind IX: Lullaby is a fine example of the diverse health related practices in which his orchestrations are employed. Designed for sound relaxation and sleep therapy in mind, people who teach or perform yoga and massage have many positive comments about Chuck Wild, and his universal music with widespread appeal. People who have benefited from his music made comments in the song video below.

Sample Whisper to Me from Liquid Mind IX: Lullaby album and visit LiquidMindMusic.com. Cover art courtesy Chuck Wild.

The 54th GRAMMY® Award Winners in some categories were released before the televised presentation held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on February 12, 2012. If you want to see results of your favorite artist or genre, all categories for GRAMMY® Award winners and nominees will be shown when they are released.

Pat Metheny won a GRAMMY® Award in the New Age Music category for his What’s It All About album. Selected best out of five albums total in the new age music category, Pat Metheny’s 19th GRAMMY® award was selected by voting members of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (NARAS).

The GRAMMY® Awards, inaugurated in 1959, was formed to recognize artists for their achievements in the music recording industry. Andreas Vollenweider’s Down To The Moon has the honor of being the first new age artist to win a GRAMMY® in the New Age category in 1986. The National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences had earlier classified the award as Best New Age Recording.

The World Music Genre category was first initiated in 1991, when Grateful Dead member Mickey Hart won an award for his Planet Drum album.

While the New Age Music Genre and some others only have an award category for Best New Age Album, maybe someday more categories like Best New Artist and Best New Age Song will be added, and included in the televised broadcast.

Visit PatMetheny.com to sample or purchase. Sample every nominee’s album on the article I wrote titled 54th GRAMMY® Nominees; Best New Age Album. If you want to read more about NARAS history, you can visit the Wikipedia page for GRAMMY® Award for Best New Age Album.

Photos are courtesy patmetheny.com & grammy.com.

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