New Age Music World

Posts Tagged ‘Yanni’

International music celebrity Yanni has millions of fans worldwide, but what some visitors may not know is that in addition to the official Yanni.com website, there are a large number of international Affiliate Yanni websites offering exclusive news and original content about Yanni and his orchestra.  In addition to other responsibilities, international affiliates play an important role in Yanni’s world tours by orchestrating concert pre-show social events with fans.

Yanni – India is an international affiliate website offering official Yanni news and information, along with their perspective and exclusive content on one of the world’s favorite international concert artist. Recently I had the privilege of being introduced to some of the dedicated team members with India’s international affiliate website.

The people at Yanni – India are a great group of people, which was my earlier experience with the public relations representatives at Yanni – Wake Entertainment. Knowing the entire organization is an outstanding group is something every affiliate team member can be proud of, plus it speaks volumes about the quality and dedication of the people Yanni selects as his domestic and international representatives.

This international affiliate serves Yanni’s East Indian fans, along with all international website guests. Their website text is written in English, plus they provide a built-in Google dialect translator for many other languages.

Featuring official news, press releases, and exclusive content, Yanni – India provides streaming music, and website links to the world-class musicians in the orchestra. They also post a bulletin of official sites, and provides an exclusive presentation of Yanni’s extraordinary 1997 Tribute Concert.

The Tribute Concert at the Taj Mahal was aired on U.S. Public Broadcast Stations (PBS) nationwide. It was the first televised concert where I saw a live Yanni performance, and instantly became a fan myself. There is a pretty good chance the Tribute Concert in India was the same concert venue where you, and Yanni – India Team Members became fans too.

The Taj Mahal concert venue featured a variety of world-class musicians who provided outstanding instrumentals. I thought it was one of his most memorable concert events ever! Years ago I wrote a concert review article about the Tribute Concert featuring violinist Karen Briggs and woodwind specialist Pedro Eustache, both of whom performed amazing solos during the song Renegade.

The solos by Karen Briggs and Pedro Eustache during the song Renegade were delivered with increasingly more intricate and complex solo rhythms, which is what I remember most. While a lot has changed since then, some things remain the same.

Yanni is now preparing for his 2012 North American Concert Tour. Publicized as “An Evening With Yanni,” the 2012 tour covers a large number of live concert venues in the United States and Canada. Each exclusive concert will be equally extraordinary, like earlier events described by concert attendees who have written a concert review about the legendary Yanni and his orchestra.

There are over 23 International Affiliate Yanni sites, each providing exclusive news, information, and original content. Presently there are international affiliates from the countries; Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, France, Haiti, India, Iran, Italia, Mexico, Poland, Puerto Rico, Russian, and Turkey. Many countries listed have multiple international affiliate sites supporting Yanni.

The Yanni Community Fan Club is an interactive social outlet with special offers, exclusive content, and newsletter upon membership, including participation in All Access: Yanni On Tour, previews and contests. Community Fan Club members can participate in forums, create their own blog with profile, and meet Yanni fans worldwide.

The Yanni Street Team is designed for those who have a presence on the internet. Street Team members are given exclusive information and assignments like sharing exclusive content on blogs and social network pages in their community.

Yanni – Wake Entertainment really delivers by constantly finding new ways to provide a fun and friendly environment for fans who want to share the excitement and get involved. The International Affiliate sites, Community Fan Club, and Street Team are just a part of the fan friendly programs that people can participate in at Yanni.com.

The dedicated people at Yanni – India and their area of expertise are; Webmaster and Moderator: Prajit Nair, Graphics, Design and Art: Akriti, Copywriter: Jerin George, Video Editing and Flash Graphics: Prajit Nair.

Visit the Yanni.com homepage and find news and 2012 Concert Tour information, and International Affiliates pages. For albums, DVD concert videos, gifts and merchandise visit the Yanni Store. Find out more about the Yanni Street Team, and free online Community Fan Club which offers pre-sale concert tickets, plus special offers for members. Visit the Yanni-India.in homepage and archive collection for Yanni in India.

Photos are courtesy Yanni.com & Yanni-India.in. Big Stock Photo – Taj Mahal – pius99.

International concert artist Yanni is now preparing for his 2012 North American Concert Tour, publicized as “An Evening With Yanni.” The North American concert tour that begins in Florida on April 17, 2012, has a long list of live concert venues scheduled in the countries of the United States and Canada, with more concert dates to be scheduled soon in 2012.

The North American Concert Tour in 2012 has a song playlist said to be comprised of classic concert favorites, along with songs from his original studio release Truth Of Touch. In succession to his sold out world concert tour last year, this year is destined to be another successful concert season for Yanni and his world-class orchestra of professional musicians.

If you have ever read a Yanni concert review by those who have attended a concert, it’s easy to comprehend their enthusiasm. For the millions of people who have watched him perform live, Yanni is a natural attraction, but the lineup of top artists he selects for his concerts is equally legendary. Every venue in 2012 is expected to be an extraordinary evening of entertainment from the composing mulit-instrumentalist, and his orchestra.

The North American Concert Tour will showcase the international artists and talented music professionals that complete the Yanni concert experience. If you would like to read more about the professional musicians who perform live in concert with Yanni, there is a page at Yanni.com where you can read the biography for the outstanding artists who provide vocals and instrumentals. With 35 Gold and Platinum records to date, Yanni remains one of the most popular and exciting international concert artists in the world!

Visit the yanni.com homepage, and find out more about the concert artists. Below is the current concert schedule, but please note the dates shown below are subject to change. For updates and most accurate concert info check the 2012 Concert Tour Schedule at yanni.com. Mexico Dates; March 20,2012 – Arena Ciudad De Mexico, Mexico City & March 22, 2012 – Arena Monterrey, Monterrey. Photo and concert schedule courtesy Yanni – Wake Entertainment.

Yanni – North American Concert Tour Dates 2012;

April 17, 2012 – West Palm Beach, FL – Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

April 18, 2012 – West Palm Beach, FL – Kravis Center for the Performing Arts

April 20, 2012 – Miami, FL – Adrienne Arsht Center – Knight Concert Hall

April 21, 2012 – Miami, FL – Adrienne Arsht Center – Knight Concert Hall

April 22, 2012 – Naples, FL – Philharmonic Center for the Arts

April 24, 2012 – Melbourne, FL – King Center for the Performing Arts

April 25, 2012 – Sarasota, FL – Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

April 26, 2012 – Clearwater, FL – Ruth Eckerd Hall

April 28, 2012 – Louisville, KY – The Louisville Palace

April 29, 2012 – St. Louis, MO – Fox Theatre

April 30, 2012 – Indianapolis, IN – Murat Theatre at Old National Center

May 2, 2012 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre

May 3, 2012 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre

May 4, 2012 – Prior Lake, MN – Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

May 5, 2012 – Moline, IL – i wireless Center

May 7, 2012 – Grand Rapids, MI – DeVos Performance Hall

May 8, 2012 – Columbus, OH – Palace Theatre

May 9, 2012 – Pittsburgh, PA – The Benedum Center for the Performing Arts

May 11, 2012 – Memphis, TN – The Orpheum Theatre

May 12, 2012 – Nashville, TN – TPAC – Andrew Jackson Hall

May 13, 2012 – Atlanta, GA – Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

May 14, 2012 – Atlanta, GA – Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

May 16, 2012 – Cincinnati, OH – Aronoff Center for the Arts – Procter & Gamble Hall

May 17, 2012 – Cleveland, OH – State Theatre

May 18, 2012 – Buffalo, NY – Shea’s Performing Arts Center

May 19, 2012 – Providence, RI – Providence Performing Arts Center

June 8, 2012 – Vienna, VA – Filene Center

June 9, 2012 – Wantagh, NY – Nikon at Jones Beach Theater

June 10, 2012 – Boston, MA – Bank of America Pavilion

June 12, 2012 – Saratoga Springs, NY – Saratoga Performing Arts Center

June 13, 2012 – Canandaigua, NY – Constellation Brands – Marvin Sands Performing Arts Center

June 15, 2012 – Windsor, ON, CA – The Colosseum at Caesars Windsor

June 16, 2012 – Toronto, ON, CA – Sony Centre For The Performing Arts

June 17, 2012 – Toronto, ON, CA – Sony Centre For The Performing Arts

June 19, 2012 – Montreal, QC, CA – Bell Centre

June 26, 2012 – Lancaster, PA – American Music Theatre

June 27, 2012 – Easton, PA – State Theatre

June 29, 2012 Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center

June 30, 2012 Philadelphia, PA – Academy of Music

July 1, 2012 Philadelphia, PA –  Academy of Music

Visit Yanni.com for tour schedule updates.

Yanni is preparing for his 2012 North American Concert Tour, publicized as “An Evening With Yanni.” Covering a large number of live concert venues in Canada and the United States, I am certain each venue will be extraordinary, like previous events described by concert attendees who have written a concert review about the legendary Yanni and his orchestra.

The Yanni – North American Concert Tour video is a live promotional video performance for Yanni’s 2012 concert season. The song lineup is said to be comprised of classic concert favorites, and songs from his original studio album Truth Of Touch, performed by the music professionals that complete the Yanni concert experience.

Yanni’s Truth Of Touch release was recently selected in the Best of 2011 at Billboard. In addition, Truth Of Touch was selected the top-selling new age album of 2011, plus Yanni has made Billboard’s Top New Age Artist of the Year. At present, his studio release Truth Of Touch, which peaked at the #1 position, has spent a total of 48 weeks on Billboard’s Top 10 New Age chart so far this year.

After a sold out world concert tour last year, 2012 is expected to be another successful concert season for Yanni and his world-class orchestra of top musicians. Visit the Yanni.com homepage and 2012 Concert Tour page. Photos are courtesy yanni.com.

New Year’s Day 2012 symbolizes another brand new beginning for everyone. Knowing this, I can assure you many artists are beginning, or are contemplating their new albums for 2012. As the year progresses, it will be a privilege to keep you informed about the best new age music albums with my review and interview publications.

Hello everyone, my name is John P. Olsen. In my role as review publicist and site host for New Age Music World, I have sampled some of the best new age songs and albums music artists worldwide have produced last year. Like previous years, I have had the opportunity to write review publications for a proportionate number of the best new albums released in 2011. Today I am pleased to present my recommendation for the 12 best new age music albums I have sampled or reviewed in 2011.

When it comes to new age music, I can tell you many of the popular artists I write about have produced some of the best new age music to date! For me, it takes only a moment to recall the collective number of excellent new releases public relations persons, music promoters, and new age artists sent to me for a review during 2011.

While true I couldn’t review every CD or MP3 album from 2011, I have listened to every release sent to me and many more, so I am confident of my assessment in regards to the overall quality artists have produced this past year. In fact I am certain most, if not every new age promoter and review publicist would express a similar, if not identical viewpoint.

Every artist has given their best in 2011, and so begins the process of determining who will win the various best album awards by high profile organizations like the GRAMMYS® or Billboard magazine.

Finding the best new age albums for your listening experience is even easier in 2012, thanks to the internet and online stores like Amazon and iTunes, where you have easy access to sample or purchase your favorite music in either CD album or MP3 formats. Similarly, online internet radio and television radio stations make finding new music you can call your favorite a relatively easy task.

The GRAMMY® Awards, Billboard Charts, Independent Music Awards or Zone Music Reporter is a great source for discovering some of the most popular music available today.

Regardless of whether a top album award is determined by voting members, album sales, popular choice, online radio airtime or broadcaster votes, each organization is an excellent source to discover some of the best new music available.

Likewise, I am confident you will find some of my January 1, 2012 recommendations made today about the best albums from 2011 will be included in various top album awards ceremonies later this year.

My Best New Age Music Albums in 2011 recommendation is listed in alphabetical order of the artist tags at my site, using each artist’s first name. If you are interested in finding popular music from some of today’s top artists, my 12 best albums publication includes direct links so you may sample or purchase my music recommendations at the artist’s website or on their music page at Amazon.com.

Best New Age Music Albums 2011;

1. Damayanti by 2002.

Damayanti is the newest release from 2002 featuring 10 celestial song melodies in the graceful style only 2002 can produce. You can tell the beautiful songs on this quality orchestration is a 2002 production, but this is a compliment about 2002, who made the list of top new age artists in Billboard Magazine’s Year in Review, December 2003 issue.

Damayanti does embrace a magnificent change in tonal atmosphere from earlier albums, and supports the cinematic aspects of their work that have made every one of 2002’s music releases special. Based on a legendary love story, Damayanti features instrumentals of Randy Copus performing piano, electric cello, lead guitar and bass guitar.

Pamela Copus performs flutes, harp, keyboards and a WX5 wind instrument. Their young daughter Sarah Copus sang some vocals on Damayanti, and I read Sarah is again going to be a vocalist on the new album from 2002 entitled Believe.

The heart and spirit of 2002, Randy and Pamela Copus are nearing a significant milestone in their music careers by a forthcoming 20 year anniversary as the award winning, 2002 music duo. After having charted at Billboard with 9 of their albums, and sharing the limelight at Billboard as equals with artists like Enya, Mannheim Steamroller, Jim Brickman and Yanni, Randy and Pamela Copus of 2002, truly do have many reasons to give pause, reflect, and celebrate their 20th year as esteemed new age artists.

Visit 2002music.com to sample or purchase Damayanti by 2002, or find at Amazon.com. Read our interview and full review on my pages for 2002.

2. And Love Rages On! – by AOMusic.

And Love Rages On! – by AOMusic is a brilliant world fusion release with 9 colorful songs of instrumentals and vocals. AOMusic shares a genuine message of unity on their 2011 release with an album title proclaiming – and Love Rages On! It is on this very unique release where ethnic harmonies of children and boys choirs from four continents are united with superb world music rhythms and contemporary instrumentals.

The principal members of AOMusic are Richard Gannaway, Jay Oliver, and lead singer Miriam Stockly. Founding artist Richard Gannaway sings vocals and plays stringed instruments. Jay Oliver performs keyboards and synthesizers. Miriam Stockly is a beautiful vocalist in – and Love Rages On!

During the combined careers of the three artists, they have worked with popular groups like; Sheryl Crow, The Eagles, Queen, George Michael, Jimmy Buffett, Celine Dion, Bonnie Raitt, and Tina Turner. This all-star celebrity lineup is a partial list, but it does give you an idea of the high level of quality Richard, Jay, and Miriam are recognized for.

The children and boys choirs featured on And Love Rages On! – are youth choirs from Africa, America, China and the People’s Republic of Georgia. Additional key members are Sandeep Chowta who plays Indian flute tracks, and regular contributing artists Andy Georges (strings), George Bernardo (percussion), and Doug Lunn (bass guitar).

Integrating world fusion music with lively world-beat rhythms and select children’s choirs from four continents, the heartfelt singing by children from varying countries have helped unify and transform this exclusive world fusion release into something very special!

Visit aomusic.com to sample or purchase – and Love Rages On by AOMusic, or at Amazon.com. Read my full album review on my pages for AOMusic.

3. Autumn Sky by Blackmore’s Night.

Autumn Sky is a new album from the legendary renaissance inspired new age and folk Rock touring band Blackmore’s Night. Debuting at #1 on Billboard’s New Age Chart, Autumn Sky has 15 classic songs of Blackmore’s Night best music to date. Traditional instruments of keyboards, violin, woodwinds, acoustic and electric guitars are integrated with hurdy-gurdy, mandolin, vintage instruments, and elegant vocals by Candice Night.

Ritchie Blackmore and Candice Night are GRAMMY® nominated artists who are the core essence of Blackmore’s Night. Autumn Sky serves as a platform to accentuate Cadence Night’s talents as a vocalist, along with ancient and modern instrumental fanfare for which this group has become internationally famous.

The entire seven member troupe of Blackmore’s Night performs in dramatic fashion by wearing renaissance attire during their popular concerts, fairs, and festival events.

The international success for Blackmore’s Night is truly impressive. The elite musical focus they have engraved for themselves has resulted in an enormous following in North America, South America, Europe and Japan. Their melodies have gained crossover prosperity by the enchanting lyrical vocals and fascinating instrumental music that often contain the metrical structure of music dating back to the seventeenth century.

Blackmore’s Night is a true champion by their consistent ability to create transcending music that varies with every new album they have produced. This bold renaissance inspired band which transports progressive music into contemporary times is a model for success, past, present and future. Blackmore’s Night fans will be pleased to know Ritchie and Candice are working on a follow-up album to Autumn Sky.

Visit blackmoresnight.com to sample or purchase Autumn Sky by Blackmore’s Night, or find at Amazon.com. Read the full review on my pages for Blackmore’s Night.

4. Reflections by Candice Night.

The Reflections album is an excellent solo release from Candice Night, lead vocalist of the legendary renaissance inspired new age and folk rock touring band Blackmore’s Night. Candice Night’s worldwide presence as the popular lead singer and songwriter for Blackmore’s Night has proven to be the perfect overture for her exclusive solo release.

GRAMMY® nominated Candice Night, who is the recipient of numerous gold records and prestigious awards, along with husband Ritchie Blackmore, find musical inspiration from the beauty of nature. You will find Candice Night’s vocal and lyrical point of view is even more a focus of attention on Reflections.

Candice Night’s new solo album, made of her own creation is popular music produced in a more contemporary, crossover theme from the renaissance motif of Blackmore’s Night. One constant characteristic of her solo release is her incomparable vocal and lyrical qualities, which turn out to be an expert expression throughout her first new release.

One cannot talk about Candice Night without pointing out her leading role as singer in the forefront on Blackmore’s Night albums. The songs on Reflections are diverse in many ways from the renaissance themed Blackmore’s Night albums as one would expect.

Best of all, Reflections reveals another aspect of Candice Night, and her many talents for producing popular crossover music in a contemporary theme you are sure to love. Candice Night’s Reflections is an online radio favorite worldwide, and Reflections made #4 at Zone Music Reporter’s Top 100 Chart during the month of October, 2011.

Visit candicenight.com to sample or purchase Reflections by Candice Night, or find at Amazon.com. Read the full review on my pages for Candice Night.

5. Echoes of Creation by David Arkenstone.

Echoes of Creation is a masterful 10 song soundtrack from the award winning instrumental composer David Arkenstone. On Echoes of Creation, the three times GRAMMY® nominated musician David Arkenstone teamed up with Emmy Award winning film director Jan Nickman. The inspiring nature film by Jan Nickman, in unison with David Arkenstone’s magnificent instrumental soundtrack is an absolute masterpiece!

Diverse in his song writing aptitude, David Arkenstone, and his always popular music collection is an array of ambient, Celtic, contemporary instrumental, world, electronic, and new age fusion.

It is this unique characteristic of David Arkenstone’s ingenious songwriting abilities and extensive discography which practically guarantees there is a favorite album for just about everyone, including Echoes of Creation.

Many of you may have watched the televised Echoes of Creation film and soundtrack since the film aired nationwide on Public Broadcasting Stations (PBS) in 2011. In this case, the Echoes of Creation soundtrack is a beautifully articulated cinematic music score I am certain nearly everyone will appreciate.

David Arkenstone’s popularity as a favorite artist is apparent when you consider he has sold over one million albums, and has been listed in the Top 10 Billboard New Age charts twenty times. It is clear David Arkenstone was the perfect choice for Jan Nickman’s nature inspired film. The collection of songs on Echoes of Creation is a sure winner, and an easy decision to make in my best new age albums recommendation.

Visit davidarkenstone.com to sample or purchase Echoes of Creation by David Arkenstone, or you can find at Amazon.com. Read our interview and album review on my pages for David Arkenstone.

6.  Groove Tribe by David & Steve Gordon.

Groove Tribe is the Gordon Brother’s new groove/chill out album featuring 11 songs in a vibrant blend of electronic music with ethnic percussion rhythms miles apart from many other forms of multicultural world music. Featuring electronic groove and chill out music with world drums and musical instruments, each of the 11 songs on Groove Tribe convey the relaxing yet vibrant trademark quality in which David and Steve Gordon are famous.

David and Steve Gordon are two prominent names people identify as one of the most prolific music team in today’s international music scene. After founding their esteemed Sequoia Records label 28 years ago, the award winning Gordon Brothers have earned the reputation of legendary music producers.

Groove Tribe has the calming metrical rhythms and vibrant electronic harmonies that keep the Gordon brothers in the forefront of new age and world music styles. It likewise highlights their ability to fashion a wide selection of popular music in a variety of sub-genres. The Gordon brother’s new album is an exotic assortment of smooth song melodies in step with ethnic percussion rhythms so it’s no wonder the songs on Groove Tribe are presently a bestselling choice for many people.

David and Steve Gordon’s compilation albums are another significant component of their work together during their role as award winning DJs, which showcase top artists from around the globe. Selecting the best international talents, top quality artists on Sequoia Record’s playlist lineup can be found on many of the Gordon Brother’s compilation releases.

Visit sequoiarecords.com to sample or purchase Groove Tribe by artists David and Steve Gordon, or find at Amazon.com. Read album reviews on my pages for David and Steve Gordon.

7. Songs From Before by Fionnuala Sherry.

Songs From Before is Fionnuala Sherry’s first solo release, and her personal revision on some of Ireland’s most beloved melodies. Born of Irish heritage, Fionnuala Sherry is an extraordinary violinist extensively known as the fairer side of the internationally acclaimed music duo Secret Garden.

Songs From Before is a contemporary instrumental album with 10 songs, including some previously unreleased original compositions that highlight her expertise as a professional violinist and vocalist. Her solo release became an instant success, and was chosen #3 in the Top 25 at Echoes in August 2011.

Fionnuala Sherry’s solo release Songs From Before in entirety is a moving experience and inspirational beacon showing her in a new light, yet remains true to character in regards to the remarkable violin melodies for which she is famous.

The overall sound quality on Songs From Before is rich and opulent, uplifting at one moment to deeply poignant in another. I felt every song has an elegant tenor of sophistication and depth without being overly classical. Fionnuala’s modern revisions of Irish song melodies capture traditional moments with new-found charm and charisma. Fionnuala Sherry is a longtime RTE Concert Orchestra member, and has performed with top artists including The Chieftains, Sinead O’Connor and Bono of U2 fame.

While Fionnuala Sherry’s fame and success as a partner with Norwegian composer and pianist Rolf Løvland of Secret Garden has earned them admiration by millions of people as a music team, Fionnuala Sherry can claim a brilliant success of her own by the release of her first solo album Songs From Before. Rolf and Fionnuala together have a beautiful new Secret Garden album entitled Winter Poem.

Visit fionnualasherry.com to sample or purchase Songs From Before by Fionnuala Sherry, or you can fnd at Amazon.com. Read our interview and full review on my pages for Fionnuala Sherry.

8. Spectrum by Hennie Bekker.

Spectrum is a wonderful collection of 14 songs pointing to the diverse abilities of a world-class musician. Spectrum is a relaxing album that accents the entire range and variety of award winning Hennie Bekker. The highly prolific Bekker has composed and produced over 60 albums, and over a thousand compositions and collaborations.

Hennie Bekker is a multi-platinum artist who has spent his entire music career exploring a wide array of genres, from new age, electronic, world music, and acclaimed nature soundscape albums. His work with Dan Gibson’s Solitudes – Exploring Nature with Music series was so popular the albums achieved gold, platinum, double and triple platinum status.

Hennie Bekker is also one of three leading members of the techno/dance group BKS. The group BKS won a prestigious Juno Award from the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS), which is the equivalent to an American GRAMMY® award. You can include film scores, television and radio recordings in his long list of achievements as a musician. Presently, Spectrum is the #1 album in Zone Music Reporter’s Top 100 Chart for November 2011.

Spectrum – An Anthology Of Relaxing Instrumental Music is like a “best of Hennie Bekker album” by the wide range of melodic songs on this impressive album. Of the 14 songs total, eleven songs are recordings selected out of his rather extensive music collection. Hennie Bekker from Canada, who was born and raised in Africa and lived in England, brings a world of experience to his music. Take a minute to sample Spectrum, and the world-class music of Hennie Bekker.

Visit henniebekker.com to sample or purchase Spectrum by Hennie Bekker, or find at Amazon.com. Read the full album review on my pages for Hennie Bekker.

9. Survival & Other Stories by Jon Anderson.

Survival & Other Stories is a concept album from music celebrity Jon Anderson, former front man, and lead vocalist of the group YES. The concept album has a collection of 11 songs of wonderful orchestrations unified with Jon Anderson’s heartfelt vocal energies, beautifully articulated as optimistic, upbeat and positive.

Jon Anderson’s influence and starring role in music over five decades is legendary. One can say Jon’s divine voice and lyrical message is an unforgettable story people want to hear.

It is estimated over 38 million albums were sold during his years as the dynamic lead vocalist with YES, and his successful solo career to date. Entertaining millions of people during his lengthy career, Jon Anderson without a doubt has a wonderful story to share with the world.

Jon Anderson began the concept for Survival & Other Stories after he nearly perished from a serious illness. This unique project began to take shape after his recovery. It was during this time period when Jon published a written message on his website inviting artists to submit their music for his new Survival & Other Stories project.

Select musicians from all corners of the world sent their ethnic music over the internet for consideration, and the genesis of something beautiful was born. Jon then mixed, composed, and co-produced with wife Jane Anderson, the first of three concept albums.

While Jon Anderson will always be recognized as the legendary lead singer and key lyricist of the progressive rock band YES, Jon Anderson’s prolific music career continues to be as inspiring and significant today as it was yesteryear. Jon has been performing concert tours with former YES member, and acclaimed keyboardist Rick Wakeman, in support of their live album The Living Tree in Concert Part 1. Jon is also on tour with numerous live solo concerts scheduled for 2012.

Visit jonanderson.com to sample or purchase Survival & Other Stories by Jon Anderson, or you can find at Amazon.com. Read our interview together and my album review for Survival & Other Stories on my pages for Jon Anderson.

10. Unconditional by Marc Enfroy.

Unconditional is a cinematic piano release from pianist Marc Enfroy featuring 10 classic songs.  Award winning pianist Marc Enfroy created Unconditional in a partnership with Randy and Pamela Copus of 2002, who are another award winning, Billboard Charting band. Unconditional is a passionate musical portrait by the beautiful union of contemporary instrumentals and piano music.

Marc Enfroy’s new release from 2011 is an innovative contemporary instrumental release that was bound to be a success right from its conception. It’s a newly born sound creation you are sure to love.

The attributes of Unconditional are best defined by the fine piano performance from Marc, unified with beautiful performances of flute, strings, bell tones and chorales. Produced by Randy Copus of 2002, Pamela Copus sings vocals, and Jack Chen plays flute, in an exclusive fusion of professional talents.

Marc Enfroy’s music career first emerged after the death of his sister Suzanne Whiting to cancer, but it was from the profound loss of his sister his progressive music legacy arose.

Finding inspiration in memory of Suzanne, Marc proceeded to compose music for the senses, and as it turns out, Marc Enfroy indeed has the natural gift of a true artisan. Empowered by design to take flight, the uplifting composition of inspiring song melodies on Unconditional is the ultimate music experience to celebrate life.

Visit marcenfroy.com to sample or purchase Unconditional by Marc Enfroy, or find at Amazon.com. Read the full review on my pages for Marc Enfroy.

11. Winter Poem by Secret Garden.

Winter Poem is an exciting new release from Secret Garden. The fabulous lineup of 11 songs on Winter Poem is made up of original arrangements from Rolf Løvland. Featuring professional violinist Fionnual Sherry, the mainly vocal instrumental release includes the award-winning Expo Suite Rolf composed for the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai China.

Norwegian composer Rolf Løvland and Irish violinist Fionnuala Sherry of Secret Garden are a successful music team who has sold over four million albums. Along with the 1995 Eurovision Song Contest award, they have performed before thousands of people worldwide at live concerts covering many countries.

On Winter Poems, Secret Garden preserves their signature sound that has made them an international success, but they have taken a fresh approach on their newest composition by featuring special guest musicians. The outstanding Irish violinist Fionnuala Sherry is happily the centerpiece artist, plus Secret Garden’s vibrant new release is special by the inclusion of exceptional Norwegian and Irish musicians.

One guest is dynamic vocalist Moya Brennan from Celtic group Clannad, who sings on song The Dream. Guest vocalist Fionnuala Gill sings on song Mary’s Lament, while Tracey Campbell and Espen Grjotheim perform on song Powered By Nature. Winter Poem also features instrumentals by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra. Popular music given by a popular music duo is a good indication that you will love every verse of Winter Poem. Secret Garden recently completed a live concert tour in Norway.

Visit secretgarden.no to sample or purchase Winter Poems by Secret Garden, or find at Amazon.com. Read our interview and album reviews on my pages for Secret Garden.

12. Truth Of Touch by Yanni.

Truth Of Touch is a passionate reflection of what Yanni does best, which is to create personal interaction with an audience through his extraordinary music abilities. Famous for his exceptional live concert performances, this time around Yanni’s social interaction is shared with his fans by virtue of his magnificent studio version of 15 songs. The hour long symphony of refined music harmony is an original composition, and fascinating expression from the international superstar Yanni, and his select orchestra.

Yanni is conceivably the greatest influential musician of our time, and Yanni’s exceptional abilities as a gifted composer and keyboardist by are by themselves a true testament to his universal appeal.

When taking into consideration the extraordinary artists and vocalists by his side, the collective inspiration pay tribute to a universal, heartfelt music experience. On Yanni’s Truth Of Touch album the energy and excitement of their performance is palpable.

Yanni – Live at the Acropolis began his historic rise to stardom, and it may have been the first venue where many of you witnessed Yanni’s grand entrance onto the world stage. It is estimated over 500 million people from 65 countries have viewed this top public television fundraising program for the American Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) alone. Yanni – Live at the Acropolis alone to date has sold 7 million copies worldwide.

Truth Of Touch is an sensational studio composition of pure refinement. The phenomenal caliber of musicians Yanni enlisted on Truth Of Touch is boldly demonstrated on what I feel is Yanni’s greatest electronic and instrumental music composition to date. Yes, we have heard many exceptional new albums and songs in 2011 from a variety of artists, and what better way to close than by recommending one of the best new 2011 albums produced by one of the world’s most exciting international concert artists we identify simply as Yanni.

Visit yanni.com to sample or purchase Truth Of Touch by Yanni, or find at Amazon.com. Read my review and concert information on my pages for Yanni.

This concludes my Best New Age Albums in 2011 recommendations. Later in 2012, I plan to write several feature publications about the various best new age album awards presented by high profile music organizations. Thank you for your visit today, and I invite you to visit New Age Music World again soon.

To find more of the best new age songs and albums in 2011, visit my album reviews page and music awards page.

Cover arts are courtesy of each individual artist. Big Stock Photo copyright – BSoriano – Stuarthe – Edobric – Baloncici.

Yanni and his orchestra have released their concert tour schedule that begins again later this year in September 2011. The United States, Canada, Mexico and Panama, were the host locations earlier in the year for Yanni concerts, plus in addition to the current concert schedule, there are plans currently forming for a series of Yanni concerts in Eastern Europe that will carry on to Asia and Latin America later in the year.

Shown below is Yanni and his orchestra’s current concert schedule. Visit yanni.com for news and concert information. Keep up with current news by signing up for their newsletter and visit his FaceBook page. Find more on our Yanni pages.

Yanni Concert Tour Dates 2011;

September 14, 2011 – Bucharest, Romania

September 16, 2011 – Budapest, Hungary

September 18, 2011 – Istanbul, Turkey

September 23, 2011 – Yerevan, Armenia

October 1, 2011 – Beijing, China

October 2, 2011 – Beijing, China

October 4, 2011 – Shanghai, China

October 7, 2011 – Guangzhou, China

October 10, 2011 – Chengdu, China

October 14, 2011 – Seoul, South Korea

October 26, 2011 – Muscat, Oman

Photo is courtesy yanni.com.

There are two top of the chart New Age albums at Billboard I have reviewed recently, both of which are two new releases that I would recommend for anyone who loves great instrumental music. Yanni & Blackmore’s Night are two of the new releases currently listed in the Top 10 New Age charts.

Yanni’s Truth Of Touch is listed as the number 1 album. Truth Of Touch has spent 20 weeks on the Billboard chart during the week of July 9, 2011. Another fine album from Yanni I haven’t reviewed is his more ethnic instrumental release Mexicanisimo, which is listed at number 7 after having spent 36 weeks on the charts.

Truth Of Touch is a studio composition of refinement, giving one a beautiful impression like the inspiring concert recollections of yesteryear. The prodigious caliber of musicians Yanni enlists is boldly demonstrated on what I feel is his greatest instrumental music composition yet.

Blackmore’s Night’s Autumn Sky is listed as the number 4 album during the week of July 9, 2011. Autumn Sky was the second album I reviewed this year that had debuted at number 1. This renaissance inspired band which transports progressive music into contemporary times is a model for success, past, present and future.

This Blackmore’s Night album was also the greatest gainer of the week after having spent 20 weeks in the top 10 New Age albums at Billboard. Another fine release that I haven’t reviewed is Secret Voyage, which endured as a top 10 album for 72 weeks.

Ritchie Blackmore & Candice Night are the Grammy Nominated musicians that make up the core essence of Blackmore’s Night. You will find Autumn Sky is an album that accentuates the elegant vocals delivered by Candice, along with ancient and modern instrumental fanfare for which this group has become famous.

Blackmore’s Night & Yanni are both awarding winning music groups I will write more about in the future. If you want to read my album reviews and listen to songs videos, here are my Yanni Truth Of Touch review and his Voyage song video. Here is my Blackmore’s Night Autumn Sky review and their Highland song video. View the current Billboard New Age Chart.

Respective cover art is courtesy yanni.com & blackmoresnight.com.

If you missed the Live Chat-Interview webcast on March 16, 2011 with Yanni and interview host Lauren Sanchez, you now have a chance to view a re-broadcast of this live event shared with thousands of people around the world.  In one of Yanni’s more personal interviews, Lauren read questions submitted earlier, and questions turned in during the live webcast.  Award-winning news anchor and media personality Lauren Sanchez was well prepared by some great questions of her own.

It turned out to be a pleasant surprise when Lauren began with a lead-in question about review publicists and music critics who have been less than positive about his contemporary instrumental music during earlier years.  She then read a more positive quote I wrote from my recent Truth Of Touch review.  It was also a nice compliment when she provided credits to me and New Age Music World during the broadcast.

For over an hour and a half, webcast viewers were able to participate during a wide range of personal questions covering many topics.  Some of the topics in this interview styled chat session included; questions regarding how and why this award-winning musician began a career in music, and the process in which he selects the exceptional musicians who accompany him during concerts, tours, and studio albums.

There were dozens of highly personal questions, and Yanni did touch upon a political question concerning Egypt, along with several other present day news topics.  Some of the countries in which people turned in questions during the live broadcast include Bolivia, Canada, China, Egypt, Greece, Italy, and the United States.

The Yanni-Wake team – responsible for the livestream.com broadcast, again prove they are prepared to go the distance for his fans by creating a live conversation that is indeed memorable and sure to please.  Recognized for his close connection with his global fan base, Yanni is open, genuine and sincere during his responses as anticipated, and remains optimistic about his music career in the years ahead.  It is a fun and enjoyable conversation with the man we identify simply as Yanni.

View the Live Chat broadcast at livestream.com or by Yanni banner shown on the right.  Visit yanni.com for news and concert dates and our pages dedicated to Yanni.  Below is my Truth Of Touch album review quote Lauren Sanchez read during the livestream broadcast.

Yanni is conceivably the greatest influential musician of our time.  While his exceptional abilities as a gifted composer and keyboardist by themselves are a valid testament to his universal appeal, when you factor in the remarkable musicians and vocalists by his side and personal “One World, One People“ vision, the collective inspiration pay tribute to a universal and heartfelt music experience.

Yanni-Wake Entertainment has a very special event just beginning, with a live video chat between Yanni and fans to climax this extraordinary event taking place in an aired-live forum on March 16th.  The folks at Yanni.com are currently collecting questions, and then posting them in new videos every day until the open forum on March 16th.

Wouldn’t you like to have the opportunity to ask your favorite music celebrity a personal question related to their music?  According to yanni.com, people from across the globe are turning in their questions for Yanni’s personal reply at this very minute.  In fact, there are still several days for you to send in your questions early before the main event is broadcast live!

This live video chat event from Yanni-Wake Entertainment will be hosted by the award-winning, American news anchor and media personality Lauren Sanchez.  In addition to answering many fan questions, Yanni also plans to share details on his upcoming concert tour and new album, “Truth of Touch.”  Here are the specific details;

Visit yanni.com or go directly to their news page for complete live chat details, and to see videos of questions in the days before March 16th.

On March 16 you can access the Live Video Chat webcast by clicking on this link; LiveStream.com/OfficialYanni or by clicking on our banner above.  You can submit your questions early to: Ask@Yanni.com.  The Live Video Chat forum will begin airing at 1:00pm (EDT) Eastern Daylight Time.

Banner courtesy yanni.com.

Chances are everyone reading my pre-release Truth Of Touch album review today is well acquainted with the man we identify simply as Yanni, and if you are like most people you can vividly recall the very first time you viewed a televised Yanni concert.  Now, can’t you just remember the exhilaration of watching this charismatic gentleman touch the lives of people of all nationalities with his music?

Truth Of Touch is truly a passionate reflection of what Yanni does best which is create a personal interaction with an audience through his extraordinary music abilities, and just like those powerful memories of yesteryear the close societal bond is shared by virtue of his magnificent studio version of 15 songs with an over hour long symphony of refined harmony.

Truth Of Touch is a Contemporary Instrumental & Electronic arrangement likewise creating a genuine fascination for a multitude of people by being an original composition and direct expression from Yanni himself.  This enthusiasm is not surprising since his last original arrangement Ethnicity from 2003 is an excellent and successful album.

It may explain why Truth Of Touch is highly anticipated among his enthusiastic fan base, along with a vast multitude of people who consistently search for outstanding music that greatly surpasses the everyday ordinary.

Yanni is conceivably the greatest influential musician of our time. While his exceptional abilities as a gifted composer and keyboardist by themselves are a valid testament to his universal appeal, when you factor in the remarkable musicians and vocalists by his side and personal “One World, One People“ vision, the collective inspiration pay tribute to a universal and heartfelt music experience.

Yanni Live at the Acropolis began his historic rise to stardom and likely the first time you witnessed his grand entrance onto the world stage since 500 million people from 65 countries have viewed this top fundraising program for PBS.  The album sold 7 million copies worldwide and the music video sold over 1 million copies to become a top selling music video, second only to the Thriller Video by the late Michael Jackson.

If you regularly watch the Olympic Games then you know his music scores are presented during international television broadcasts of the Olympic Games since 1988.  He has 35 platinum and gold albums and received 2 GRAMMY® Nominations in the Best New Age Album category, for In My Time and then Dare to Dream. Perhaps of greater importance to Yanni himself are his fans, since after a temporary departure Yanni made a celebrated return to concert tours and producing music due in part to the personal letters from his dedicated fan base requesting encore performances.

In fact his global presence has remained strong following the earlier days where over 2 million people in over 20 countries attended a Yanni concert, some of which were held in culturally significant locations like the Tribute Concert venues held at the Taj Mahal in India and The Forbidden City in China, where viewership reached a television audience of 250 million people.

Truth Of Touch can be defined by the contemporary instrumental, electronic and cinematic influences, but what makes this new release special like earlier albums are a wide array of influences, crossing over into popular, new age and world music domains too.  Truth Of Touch ( Title Song ) begins a memorable introduction to a lavish cascade of midrange keyboard and string sequences set in time to energetic orchestration crescendos and intense timpani drum beats, giving you your first positive affirmation this is indeed an authentic composition from Yanni.  The boldly decisive first song is satisfying to the senses by the majestic intonation, and this is true again regarding the reverberation keyboard melody united with higher octave twinkling notes heard in Echo Of A Dream.

Seasons has a lighter keyboard sequence at the onset, changing in dramatic fashion during every refrain by articulated electronics, strings and xylophone notes.  Backed by rhythmic heartbeat percussion, Seasons progresses into a heartening song of inspiration.  Voyage is a fine excursion reaching epic qualities at times where the lighter prelude is forerunner to a spectacular sound adventure created by strings and woodwind orchestration.  Suspended by steady percussion beats, the full instrumentation creates a wonderful sensation of depth.

The World ethnicity percussion rhythms and accents with ever changing intervals of harp and cello create a beautiful tribal effect in Flash Of Color, and true again by the voice of a child set in instrumental counter time during I’m So.  Pronounced orchestra and percussion rhythms are a bold source of vibrant energy presented in the upbeat melodic theme of Vertigo.  The vocal melodies on Can’t Wait and Secret are definitively two of the more serene songs on the album.  Elegant and passionate, the soprano vocalist delivers her romantic lyrics in a graceful emotive voice which is certain to be a popular collection of contemporary songs for many people.

O Luce Che Brilla Nell’Oscurita is exquisitely imaginative given the theatrical piano, light choir and opera concerto in a harmonious adaptation where the tenor vocalist proclaims his warm and moving declaration of sentiment direct from the heart.

Long Way Home has an air of sophistication yet the vigorous piano melody has a peaceful atmosphere at times too, changing from light to more dynamic expressions along the way.  Mist Of A Kiss reveals intricate percussion rhythms having a steadfast effect in the timing of piano chord phrasing, like the piano and percussion cadence heard in the song Nine.  Yanni & Arturo begins with a light trumpet and piano prelude while transitioning into exuberant poetry in motion when glorious soprano vocals and intricate percussion rhythms set the progressive tempo for an improvisational style trumpet solo during which the highest octave notes are reached then extended with astounding precision and clarity.

Truth Of Touch is a studio composition of pure refinement, giving one a beautiful impression exactly like the inspiring concert recollections of yesteryear.  The prodigious caliber of musicians Yanni enlists for his projects is boldly demonstrated on what I feel is his greatest instrumental music composition yet.  Perhaps you can tell by now his newest release made me reflect on the personal exhilaration I first felt upon my introduction to his music, and it did inspire me today.  With that said, I am certain you too will find the qualities in Truth Of Touch are genuine, unforgettable and yes, simply Yanni!

Visit yanni.com and truthoftouch.com to sample or purchase and then read the latest news and concert tour dates for 2011.  For pre-release Truth Of Touch album orders and gift items visit the Yanni Store and read our pages dedicated to Yanni.  Then for related publications visit our affiliate site NewAgeMusic.nu for earlier articles about Yanni.

Photo copyright – courtesy yanni.com.  Big Stock Photo copyrights Acropolis – sborisov and Taj Mahal – pius99.

One of the most exciting aspects of being a review publicist is having the opportunity to receive and then listen to a new album that has not yet been released to the public.  In this case my recent mailing happens to be a Truth Of Touch CD from Yanni.  I will be publishing my review for Truth Of Touch here at NewAgeMusicWorld.Com & NewAgeMusic.nu soon, but I wanted to take a moment and give our visitors my first impression.

After listening to Truth Of Touch many times over for days now, I can tell you that Yanni and the musicians in accompaniment have succeeded in producing one of the finest albums to date!  Perhaps Yanni said it best in his official Truth Of Touch YouTube video when he said everyone will be “pleasantly surprised” in regards to his newest release which is available for pre – purchase now, and has an official release date of February 8th 2011.

This new and original composition from Yanni has cutting edge Electronics, along with the exceptional Contemporary Instrumentals by accomplished musicians of fame he judiciously selects during every concert and studio album production.  Earlier I wrote about two instrumental performers in a Tribute Concert article, which was my favorite album until today!  Below is an admirable travel around the world YouTube video presenting the full length song called Voyage and then we invite you to read our pages dedicated to Yanni.

My review will be published weeks prior to the album release date and I do hope to have an interview with Yanni too so visit us again soon.  For pre – release album orders, news, and concert venues visit yanni.com and truthoftouch.com.

Photo copyright - courtesy yanni.com.

I am certain the recent article by B.T. Fasmer informing you about The original Truth Of Touch release from Yanni has created some excitement for our visitors.  It certainly has for us !   After going to the official Yanni truthoftouch.com website for pre – release samples, then reading the fan comments at his YouTube videos section and their excitement, I can say in all honesty the anticipation level is exceptionally high and this original composition from Yanni is creating quite a sensation.

It’s easy to see why people are excited since even the Truth Of Touch samples are magnificent !

You are invited to find out why this epic release from Yanni coming February 8, 2011 will be a must have release for a multitude of people worldwide.  Voyage from Truth Of Touch is featured in the video below, plus everything you need to know is available at yanni.com with info and song samples from the album for your listening pleasure at truthoftouch.com.

Yanni tells us his thoughts about Truth Of Touch, then sample the related videos after the song below.   

The new year has lots in store for Yanni fans !

On February 8th the first album of all new material composed by Yanni himself since 2003 will be released (last album was Ethnicity). The title is Truth Of Touch. The album will contain a complete track listing of 13 songs.

You can sample this epic new release at truthoftouch.com.

We are promised “The Return of Yanni As We Know Him” And WOW, what a feast this is turning out to become! These first clips shows truly that Yanni is back in shape, and ready to give us breathtakingly beautiful, larger-than-live music for those special moments.  And in connection with the release, a lot of products have been made available at the Yanni Store. Here you can buy t-shirts, umbrellas and posters.

Truth Of Touch will for sure be one of next year’s major titles, and we can – from what we have heard so far – say that it will be a worthy return from Yanni.

The recent article by B.T. Fasmer about the upcoming Yanni concert scheduled for May 13 2009 in New York led to some great discussion with a good friend of mine about the past Live Yanni Tribute Concert and programing which first aired on PBS television stations in 1997.

Perhaps many of our NewAgeMusicWorld.Com & NewAgeMusic.nu visitors can recall watching this past televised concert also since it is then estimated that well over a half billion people around the world over are familiar with, or have watched the esteemed musician Yanni. Our discussion about Yanni included the extremely talented musicians who accompany by their masterful instrumentals and perform solos during his many scheduled concert tours.

Venezuelan born Pedro Eustache specializes in ethnic flutes and woodwinds section, having two albums and a multitude of appearances with other renown musicians and composers worldwide, also playing a variety of instruments in many popular movie soundtracks. Pedro also regularly toured with Yanni for 10 years. Both artists are diverse and relentless in their pursuit of perfection in their chosen field of music and well worth a visit to their individual websites to learn more about some of the past and present day extraordinary musicians who make up the major concert headliner everyone recognizes as Yanni.

The official yanni.com website is also a great place to visit for news and the past but memorable Tribute Concert Album just mentioned, along with all discography and a vast number of live concert tour dates presently available in the United States.

                          Yanni performance live at the Taj Mahal during the Tribute Concert