Originally Published December 1, 2003 -- Your
Wellness Guide
Fall
Music Review: Feel good, family, and holiday spirit
——————————————————————
|
During
the holiday season, music is just as important as seasonal
decorations, from-the-heart gifts, and family time. Music calms,
rejuvenates, inspires, and sets the mood.
Let me
introduce you to some of my newest musical favorites, which include
seasonal, classical, family, and feel-good releases. |
Spectacular
Holiday Spirit
(12/8/03 Note: Jim Brickman's CD "Peace" was
nominated for a Grammy.)
Jim Brickman’s new CD
“Peace”
is a
must-have this year. It will be added to my Christmas music collection as
a wind-me-down, break-out-the-hot-chocolate album.
If you like
piano-heavy contemporary music, such as the likes of John Tesh’s softer
pieces, Mannheim Steamroller, Laurie Z., or Liz Story, then Brickman’s
newest compilation is for you. The breathtaking, quality production
includes both instrumentals and vocal collaborations.
|
 |
One of
my favorite songs on this release is “Sending You A Little
Christmas” sung by the Today show’s Superstar contest
finalist Kristy Starling, who now has her own CD after teaming up
with David Foster.
You
might also be familiar with the beautiful, pop-flavored track “Peace
(Where The Heart Is)” sung by Collin Raye, which has been receiving
some radio play. Enjoy this CD all month long for holiday
heaven.
Enjoyment Beyond the Season
My next recommendation is 100 percent instrumental. Joshua
Bell’s
“Romance of the Violin” is gift worthy for even the
classically shy. Plus, since it’s not Christmas music, you have
another 12 months of enjoyment ahead of you.
One-of-a-kind Violinist Bell plays his remarkable, 1713 Antonius
Stradivarius with the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields Chamber
Orchestra in London. |
Each track
has uncompromised feeling, superior dynamics, and tells an original story.
My favorite selections are Puccini’s “O Mio Bambino Caro” and Chopin’s
“Nocturne in C sharp minor.”
This CD can
easily be listened to all day as background at the office or at home.
I’ve found it releases stress and helps you focus on the work at hand.
For the Kids
An unexpected release came my way this season called “The Adventures of
Jonathan Craine” (available at
www.jonathan craine.com).
It’s a high-quality, family-friendly CD that you can safely power up in
the car with the kids or give to a child for Christmas.
The
40-minute production takes the main precocious character, Jonathan Craine,
through a jungle adventure as he meets several animal characters who teach
him about the universal values of courage, wisdom, responsibility,
respect, and compassion.
|
The
actors on this entertaining product are original and interesting,
and the original songs are fun and first-rate -- albeit meant for
ages 4-10.
This
CD is supposed to be the first in a series. I hope the creators
have a long run with Jonathan and expand through either an animated
PBS children’s program or a live-action Disney Channel show.
Do a
Good Deed
Finally, if you’re looking to purchase some music this season with a
charity touch, check out
“Voices For Gilda.”
This
CD is a tribute to the late Gilda Radner who died of cancer in 1989,
and proceeds from this double-disc album go to benefit her
international Gilda’s Club (
www.gildasclub.org).
The non-profit organization provides meeting places for cancer
victims, their friends, and families, where they can build social
and emotional support. |
 |
The
compilation has recordings from over two dozen big stars, including Radner
herself and her husband Gene Wilder. Elton John, Tony Bennett, David
Foster, and Sarah McLachlan share space on this uplifting two-disc set
with motivational, contemporary songs.
Even
amazon.com is donating the proceeds from this recording to Gilda’s Club.
So, you can’t lose by offering your support and getting quality, fun music
and humor clips in return. This is a feel-good, do-good release.
Terra
Wellington
is a
national authority on creating a wellness lifestyle.
www.terrawellington.com
© Copyright Terra
Wellington