tag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:/blogs/latest-newsLatest News...2020-02-07T11:34:27-06:00Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composerfalsetag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/62230642020-02-21T16:36:36-06:002020-02-21T16:36:36-06:00Notes on The Cinder Notes - Part III<p style="text-align: justify;">This is the final blog post in a series of three about <em>The Cinder Notes </em>album, with this last entry summarizing tracks 7-13. Hope you all have enjoyed going behind the songs in this collection, and that it has given you a little more insight as to how I create music. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Track 7, <em><strong>River Finn</strong></em>. Calm, easy going and with a relaxing pace this song was the first song written for the CD. Around the time I wrote this we got a puppy – I wanted to name him “River”, my husband wanted “Finn”. His name is “Finn”. Since I still really liked both names together I decided to just call a song “River Finn”. Sometimes weird simplicity is the way to go, and the title goes well with the laid-back nature of the melody. And, the real “Finn” is a super chill dog. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><strong>The Visitor</strong></em>. I’m not into writing music associated with deep, personal reasons and prefer to stick with the basics of being inspired by nature. This song, though… It originated from loss, followed by ongoing obvious signs of new life and peace. I struggled to find a melody “good” enough to be worthy of the title and meaning, but this one worked with the slight key change in the second part of the song. Simplistic and not very long in length, in the end it was perfection. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Track 9, <em><strong>Woodlands</strong></em>, brings it all right back to nature. Initially a medium to fast paced song, I slowed this one waaaay down because I was looking for a song with more of a “coffee house” vibe for the album. The melody worked perfect for this. Another one I would highly recommend the sheet music on, this is my other favorite to play and is one you can really “dig” into. Seriously love playing this one with the lights really low in the room, or completely in the dark. It’s deep, rich and quiet all at the same time and, if played correctly, the “transition” part of the song in the middle is just… ideal for expressive piano. Truly my favorite kind of piano music to play. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/7263206e1e92e9ae50b9d0719709b3b2b23d85c9/original/forest-with-sunlight-158251-copy.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Tamaracks</strong></em>. A tree with a cool name - and commonly found throughout the Northern Great Lakes Region. I liked the way the title sounded along with the other tracks on the album. The song moves along at a good pace, with a catchy melody, and you can almost imagine the hawks flying to and from the branches of the trees along the Lake. Another fantastic one to play, I’d recommend the sheet music on this one, also. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Track 11, <strong><em>The Cinder Notes</em></strong>. The title track to the album and one where I had the name of the song before writing the actual song. I really strive for unique, original album and song titles. I knew I wanted the word “cinder” and the word “note” somewhere on this album, and when I said the two words together I knew I had my next album title. The song itself had to be one that you could totally get lost in if you were staring into the last burning moments of a campfire... almost hypnotic and mesmerizing. A progressive set of notes to a quiet and strong transition, and then slowly back to the original notes to fade out. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Traveler</strong></em>, Track 12, brings a little bit of the beginning of the album to the end by wrapping up the story of the cedar tree and it’s traveling visitors in a rustic, unique melody that compliments the track Tobacco and Branch. Kind of a last- minute addition to the album, it was just a song that needed to be there and fit in well. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">And finally, Track 13… <strong><em>Wintertide</em></strong>. I remember writing this one during numerous snowstorms last February after the late January “Polar Vortex” here in Wisconsin. It was one storm, after another, after another… ridiculous for living life in, but super great if you’re a piano artist looking for inspiration J This song has a quiet strength, just like winter. As stated in the liner notes the representation here is cinders in a fire fading away, just like nature fades away during the Winter. The song ends, but then returns for one last set of notes. In my opinion it brought a beautiful, slightly haunting end to the collection of music. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Sheet music will be releasing soon for the entire album (late March/early April) – and I hope those of you who are interested in it will enjoy the music on a whole other level, rather than just listening to it. If you play piano, you know, that there’s nothing like mastering a song knowing you’re creating that sound, whether you wrote the piece or not. And if you don’t play piano, I hope just listening to the music I create brings you a peaceful, relaxing diversion from everyday life. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Amy</p>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/62066942020-02-07T11:34:27-06:002022-01-28T14:03:22-06:00Notes on The Cinder Notes - Part II<p style="text-align: justify;">In response to the many questions I get as to what inspires me to write the music, I’ve decided to break down <em>The Cinder Notes</em> album song by song in more detail than the liner notes. Here are the next set: </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/4d41344986a6be432aa07c1f5f515bc47081631c/original/little-spirit-cedar-tree-blog-post-copy.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Tracks four and five are about the same location and describe the scene of a cedar tree along the northern most shore of Lake Superior’s North Shore called “Little Spirit Cedar Tree” (shown in above photo). Another place I had never heard of, the tree is estimated to be 300-400 years old. Located on the Grand Portage Indian Reservation just South of the Canadian border, it is considered a sacred area and access to it is restricted. Historically, travelers have left offerings of tobacco in return for a safe journey across Lake Superior. I first learned about the tree from a news report and, if interested, you can view that <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://minnesota.cbslocal.com/2015/10/25/finding-minnesota-north-shores-witch-tree/" target="_blank">here</a>. The song title of Track 4, <strong><em>Tobacco and Branch</em></strong>, fit the rustic theme, and while the song is a rather steady pace and strong, the quiet pauses intermittently reference the travelers stop along the shore to leave their offerings and then their continued travels across the treacherous waters. It’s a song with a different, cool vibe and became a necessary part of the CD. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Track five, <strong><em>Spirit Cedar</em></strong>, represents the more spiritual, sacred aspect of the tree, and as such is a more simplistic song honoring the deep reverence locals and visitors have for the tree and its location. Quiet and beautiful, yet with strength, it’s the perfect contrast. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Track 6, <strong><em>Smoke on Hawk Lake</em></strong>. This song title initially was about the sea smoke on Lake Superior in the winter, and also because there are a lot of hawks in the area. As I was writing, I realized there was a dual meaning in the song - the second of which added much more depth to the meaning of the album. The “smoke” in the title would be as if you were sitting on the shore and saw a fire in the distance across the lake with the smoke slowly fading away into the sky from… you guessed it… cinders. It’s a gorgeous beginning melody that goes into a deep, almost dramatic, main part of the song, and then the notes trail off at the end signifying the fire ending and the smoke fading into the sky. This track is a huge favorite of mine, and fabulous to play. I highly recommend the sheet music on this one - which should be releasing by early spring. </p>
<p>Tracks seven, eight and nine will be up next...</p>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/59195902019-10-11T07:32:09-05:002022-01-13T09:11:34-06:00Notes on The Cinder Notes - Part I<p style="text-align: justify;">In response to the many questions I get as to what inspires me to write the music, I’ve decided to break down The Cinder Notes album song by song in more detail than the liner notes. Here are the first three tracks: </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/3c6d21572b036ff156b34be7b07b75a0c3b5143e/original/20191008-111627-copy.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">It began with a coffee table book. Two years ago in one of the major renovations at our house I was searching for things with an industrial chic, rustic vibe. Although I’m not a book person, I wanted a unique, rustic coffee table book. I ended up finding a fabulous one… <em>The Wild Horses of Sable Island</em>. I had never heard of this place – a remote, crescent shaped island off the coast of Nova Scotia inhabited for the most part only by wild horses – yet felt an instant connection. Of course I bought the book, which contains the most stunning photography of the horses, and then did all the research I could to learn more. Being a solo piano artist, in my opinion, can be very isolating and lonely in nature because in order to create and write, you have to be alone. Thinking about these horses living on this isolated island brought a very organic, natural connection to not only the song, but the entire album. <strong><em>Sable Island </em></strong>then became the most beautiful melody representing a unique location where wild horses run free… minimal, even lonely, simplicity at its best. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Grey Wolf Crossing</strong></em>, strangely enough, is another song with a background about an island. During the ridiculously cold weather this last winter in Wisconsin I was randomly researching the Lake Superior area and came across the true story of a grey wolf that crossed the ice bridge from Canada to Isle Royale in Lake Superior just off the North Shore. I though it was an interesting story, which made for an interesting song, thinking of his mysterious journey alone across the ice into the unknown with trepidation and pause, and the dangerous waters beneath the ice he was walking and running on. The wolf in the artwork on the CD was sketched by Matt Strieby at Newleaf Design and if you see a copy of the CD in person, it's a beautiful representation of the song with, again, simplicity and minimalism. If interested, click <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/05/science/05wolf.html" target="_blank">here</a> to read the article where I found the story. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Track three,<em><strong> Deep Hollow Cove</strong></em>, is about the cover photo and isn’t really a “cove” at all, but the Temperance River Gorge on Lake Superior’s North Shore. It is a series of waterfalls that opens to and flows into Lake Superior. The cover view is from standing at the bottom of the falls and looking out towards Lake Superior. According to history the Ojibwa named the river “Kawimbash”, which means “deep hollow river”. Originally a mid-tempo song, this one got slowed way down to give it a rolling “zen”… which was more appropriate for the photo and overall feel for the album as a whole. This photo was taken during a trip to the North Shore a few years ago for my <em>On Water</em> album, and I thought it made for a serene, minimal look for the cover. </p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Tracks three, four and five will be up next!</p>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/59076252019-09-27T12:11:41-05:002022-03-02T06:09:06-06:00Track Listing for The Cinder Notes<p>The Cinder Notes CD will be releasing soon, and I wanted to share the track listing and a little bit about how I "write" music. It's all about the song titles for me - I truthfully spend a ridiculous amount of time coming up with them to make that they are unique enough, interesting enough and just plain cool enough to tell the story of the CD. Sometimes a couple of words sound really good together, and so I write a song around that. Other times the titles are based off of an interesting place or story associated with it, and I write the music around that. I rarely write a song and name it later. For this CD the titles just had to be earthy and rustic, with a cool, laid back vibe where they were all intertwined with each other. </p>
<p>As for "writing" music - I don't. It's all by memory in my mind, and the only thing I look at and write down are the song titles, going through many drafts of the songs, re-arranging the order of songs, etc. I went through about 10 "drafts" of the song lists on this CD, flipping to a new page in the journal every time I added a song, removed a song, or changed the order. It keeps it simple. The picture below is the actual journal page of the final track listing I looked at when recording and where it all evolved from. After this one, I leave a few pages blank and start with the next CD's song list. In the next few blog posts I'll share my thoughts behind each track in more detail than the liner notes. </p>
<p>I hope to release the CD late next week, until then...</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/7b067d89fdfedebc4f7e27841241846ff9ff254b/original/20190914-125754-copy.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
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<p> </p>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/58363152019-06-20T11:05:00-05:002019-07-25T11:09:08-05:00First Look - New Music Coming Soon...<p>In my last email to everyone I mentioned that the next CD was going to be somewhat of a “winter” themed one. However, a snowy winter and one polar vortex later here in Wisconsin just made me realize I didn’t want to re-live that time of year again through the music, and I immediately switched gears. I kept the original opening song inspired by a coffee table book I had bought, and then went back to Lake Superior again for more inspiration because it just feels like home. One cool song title later became the CD title, and the rest of the music quickly wrote itself around that. So… </p>
<p>The music evolved to become <em>The Cinder Notes</em>. The title is rustic and unique. Minimalism and nature. Smoke and fire. Simplistic, basic inspiration from intriguing stories of the Lake Superior area. Merging music with nature in a minimalistic way only solo piano can. </p>
<p>Release date will be by summer’s end if all goes according to plan… stay tuned for updates!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/81d968e44d6b57415f2ee26fcbc3e600f176a9ef/original/cinder-notes-cover-3000x3000.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/46065602017-02-25T12:49:41-06:002022-03-17T08:57:11-05:00Sulla Riva UpdateMy latest CD, <em>Sulla Riva</em>, continues to do well on the new age radio charts. After debuting at Number 14 on Zone Music Reporter's Top 100 back in October of 2016 (my highest debuting CD to date), it has remained in the Top 20 for the last four months. We are grateful that it has been received so well by radio and is getting lots of air play, and we are grateful to all of the listeners for supporting it. Many thanks to everyone! : )Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/44112822016-10-09T13:14:46-05:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00Sulla Riva on the Charts...<em>Sulla Riva</em> was No. 14 on Enlightened Piano Radio's Top 20 for the month of September. Thanks to EPR and all their listeners for keeping it on the charts!
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/50db9be1c13e6b1817df5e165822d2b134ac9a03/medium/sulla-riva-cover-1400x1400.jpg?1451671316" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></div>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/43450562016-08-27T15:24:47-05:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00Sulla Riva now on Whisperings...Happy to share that selections from the <em>Sulla Riva </em>CD are now on Whisperings Solo Piano Radio...<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/50db9be1c13e6b1817df5e165822d2b134ac9a03/medium/sulla-riva-cover-1400x1400.jpg?1451671316" class="size_m justify_center border_" />Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/43112392016-08-05T08:04:22-05:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00Sulla Riva on the Charts...Happy to share that the <em>Sulla Riva </em>CD is ranked #10 in the Top 20 at Enlightened Piano Radio for July 2016. Many thanks to them and their listeners for this!
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</div>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/42836802016-07-18T13:53:23-05:002020-07-31T22:52:28-05:00New On Water CD video...I've done a quick little video for one of my favorite songs off the <em>On Water </em>CD... "Carry This Soul". It is a beautiful track, and it became the inspiration for my new CD, <em>Sulla Riva</em>. The photos are taken by me - so, not professional pics by any means - but this was the series of photos I took on a trip to the North Shore of Lake Superior that ultimately led to the cover photo of the <em>On Water </em>CD. Enjoy! : ) <br><br><iframe class="justify_center" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="Y8iWZnRF5KU" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/Y8iWZnRF5KU/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Y8iWZnRF5KU?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/38339562015-08-27T10:23:00-05:002015-09-18T11:32:24-05:00"On Water" is now on Pandora!I'm happy to share that the <em>On Water</em> CD is FINALLY on Pandora! Many, many thanks to everyone who took the time to email Pandora and request it, it is very much appreciated! <br><br> Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/30847532014-07-18T11:22:41-05:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00Amy's Music on New Compilation CD...<div style="text-align: justify;">We're thrilled to share that Amy's "Midnight Snow" track off of her <em>Winter and Christmas</em> album has been included on "Music That Matters", a compilation album with other artists for the non-profit organization, LoveLight, which helps children in South Africa. Amy has had her music used on many other compilation albums in the past, but none with so much meaning and purpose. It's truly an honor to be included in such a special project with so many wonderful artists, and to be able to give back. Below is the description from the album's Facebook page, as well as the Facebook page link for more information about the project and organization. You can purchase the album at iTunes by clicking on the album's cover below - all proceeds benefit LoveLight:<br><br>Music That Matters - LoveLight Facebook page: <a contents="https://www.facebook.com/mtmatters?ref=profile" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/mtmatters?ref=profile" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/mtmatters?ref=profile</a>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">36 songs and 9 Grammy nominated artists participating as well as numerous award-winning and cutting-edge artists. Listen to samples and see why this album has been called “the best New Age music compilation since Pure Moods — certainly the "most meaningful.” All proceeds go to LoveLight. Assembled on this one album is some of the best music available in New Age, World Fusion and Relaxing music genres -- all in one album for less than $10!</div><br><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/music-that-matters-relaxing/id899361091" target="_blank"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/19cb2c79f5ba74e143ae899d483b85c62438cf76/medium/music-that-matters-album-cover.jpg?1405699783" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></a>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/25471962014-02-09T08:06:43-06:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00Beautiful Quiet Sheet Music...<a contents="" data-link-label="Beautiful Quiet Sheet Music" data-link-type="page" href="/beautiful-quiet-sheet-music"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/d209f2a1fbb26da74b8db30df7cecee7a989b857/small/songbook-cover-final.jpg?1391954562" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></a> <br> Sheet music for the ENTIRE Beautiful Quiet CD is on the way! We have received so many requests for this one, and have decided to release the entire album of sheet music for you. I expect to have it ready by the end of February, beginning of March. <br><br> We're doing a pre-sale of the songbook for just $16.95!! The price will go up to the regular $19.95 when it is released. If you purchase the songbook now, you'll be the first to receive a download link for it when it's released. Click on the songbook to purchase.<br><br> Thanks so much for all the requests, and I hope you all enjoy playing the songs on this one!!!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/23279062014-01-04T09:26:45-06:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00On Water in Top 100 of 2013...We're very excited to share that <em>On Water</em> is Number 41 on Zone Music Reporter's Top 100 Airplay Chart for 2013. This is out of over 2,300 albums submitted for radio airplay in 2013. It was on the charts a total of seven months, including five months in the Top 25, so it had some longevity. Thanks all of you (again!) for making that album the success it's become!! <a contents="Click here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://zonemusicreporter.com/charts/Top1002013.asp" target="_blank">Click here</a> to see the whole list of albums.<br><br><a contents="" data-link-label="On Water" data-link-type="page" href="/on-water"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/7926bcfdeb8beb2996257975146602e40fd198fd/medium/full-resolution-cover.jpg?1390863762" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></a>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/22787202013-12-23T12:45:00-06:002015-09-19T12:49:21-05:00"August" and "Beautiful Quiet" are now on Pandora!We're thrilled to share that my <em>August </em>and <em>Beautiful Quiet</em> CDs are now on Pandora! Very happy that they decided to add them, and we're pretty sure it was because of all of your requests for it - so THANK YOU!! <em>Winter and Christmas</em> is also on Pandora, but having my non-holiday music on there is important because it's year-round. So, go create an Amy Lauren channel at <a contents="http://www.pandora.com/amy-lauren" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.pandora.com/amy-lauren" target="_blank">http://www.pandora.com/amy-lauren</a>... and listen away! We'll be submitting the <em>On Water</em> CD in a couple weeks after the holidays and we'll keep you updated as to the status of that.<br><br>Again, thanks so much for supporting my music! We hope you all have a fabulous holiday season!!<br> Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/20628002013-11-17T07:43:40-06:002014-04-07T12:49:24-05:00Sheet Music now Instant Downloads...We just went through a HUGE update on our site, and now we're thrilled to share that all sheet music is now available as instant downloads. Before we had to email everyone sheet music when they bought it, this now makes everything a whole lot easier for everyone involved. Mostly it's great for all of YOU, because now you don't have to wait for it. Upon purchase you are provided with a link to download it, and that's it!<br><br>As always, we hope you enjoy learning and playing the music!<br> Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/16257352013-09-15T07:57:25-05:002015-09-21T15:03:54-05:00On Water in Top 10 on Music Choice...<em>On Water</em> was ranked Number 7 on Music Choice Soundscapes in July!! The <em>On Water</em> CD continues to do well on the charts and on Music Choice... thanks so much to all the listeners out there who are making that possible. It is much appreciated!!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/15704722013-09-08T08:03:17-05:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00On Water Sheet Music now available...Sheet music for the ENTIRE <em>On Water </em>CD is ready! Available in single song PDF files and a songbook PDF file that includes all 13 songs from the <em>On Water </em>CD. We email out all sheet music files within 24 hours, but most of the time we're pretty quick and you'll get them much sooner. Click on the songbook cover below to buy, and enjoy playing the music!!<br><br><a contents="" data-link-label="On Water Sheet Music" data-link-type="page" href="/on-water-sheet-music"><img src="//content.sitezoogle.com/u/60343/e2a71162d1b4d0ffdac05e4f2671a1b694881431/medium/on-water-sheet-music-cover-1.jpg?1375988301" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></a>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/13626162013-08-08T14:00:35-05:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00New sheet music... and more sheet music!!!<br>You asked for it - and now it's here - sheet music for "The Rain Came Down" from the August CD! Just follow this <a contents="link" data-link-label="August Sheet Music" data-link-type="page" href="/august-sheet-music">link</a> to buy it. We do have plans to release ALL of the songs on the August CD over time, so keep checking back for that. And now for some MORE fabulous news on the sheet music front...<br><br>The ENTIRE On Water CD will be available in sheet music form coming in September! I'm particularly happy about this one because well, this CD just looks really cool in sheet music form! I've had it transcribed and now I just need to proof and finalize it, which should take me about 3-4 weeks. Until then, we're having a <span style="color:#B22222;">Pre-Release Sale</span> on the songbook (<span style="color:#B22222;">emailed - PDF format only</span>) for just $19.95 - when it's released in September it will be the normal price of $24.95 for the entire collection. To take advantage of that really awesome price... click <a contents="here" data-link-label="On Water Sheet Music" data-link-type="page" href="/on-water-sheet-music">here</a>! If you buy it now, you'll be FIRST on the list to receive it by email in September.<br><br><a contents="" data-link-label="On Water Sheet Music" data-link-type="page" href="/on-water-sheet-music"><img src="//content.sitezoogle.com/u/60343/e2a71162d1b4d0ffdac05e4f2671a1b694881431/medium/on-water-sheet-music-cover-1.jpg?1375988301" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></a><br><br><br> Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/10860962013-07-08T00:00:00-05:002022-05-19T08:48:30-05:00"On Water" added to Music Choice Soundscapes...We're VERY happy to share that tracks from the <i>On Water</i> CD are now in rotation on Music Choice - Soundscapes channel. Be sure and listen for it if you get the Music Choice channels... and let us know - we want to know if you hear it!!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/9661542013-06-18T00:00:00-05:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00"On Water" climbs to Number 11... "On Water" is at Number 11 on Zone Music Reporter's Top 100 Radio Airplay Chart for May of 2013. Many thanks to new age radio for playing it!!!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/7926bcfdeb8beb2996257975146602e40fd198fd/large/full-resolution-cover.jpg?1390863762" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="397" width="400" />Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/8216142013-05-26T05:20:00-05:002022-02-24T09:14:19-06:00Radio Promo for "On Water"...Radio promotion for the <i>On Water</i> CD has begun, and it debuted at Number 24 on Zone Music Reporter's <a href="http://zonemusicreporter.com/charts/top100.asp" target="_new">Top 100 Radio Airplay Chart</a> for April of 2013. Tracks from the CD are also now in rotation at Whisperings, <a href="http://solopianoradio.com" target="_new">solopianoradio.com</a>. Be sure and listen for it on your favorite new age radio program and, if you don't hear it, request it! I appreciate your help in sharing my music with the world!! We'll keep you informed as <i>On Water</i> hopefully makes its way on up the charts!<br><br> Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/4803642013-04-07T06:12:20-05:002013-04-07T06:12:20-05:00New Promo Video for "On Water"This is the first of hopefully a few videos for the <i>On Water</i> CD. In this first promo we've included a few pictures from our trip to the North Shore of Lake Superior last year, as well as clips from the songs "Cedar Rush", "The Field Dancer", "Native Peace" and "Fire and Flint". <br><br><br type="_moz"><iframe width="460" height="315" src="https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/rLbIRkIMeXs" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/3912362013-03-21T07:50:00-05:002013-03-21T07:50:00-05:00New "On Water" CD Review!I'm thrilled to share the following fabulous review of the <i>On Water</i> CD from Kathy Parsons at Mainlypiano.com! <br><br><div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica;"><i><b><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">On Water is the sixth solo piano release from Amy Lauren, and it’s a beauty! The thirteen original tracks carry the themes of water and nature, conveying peace and tranquility via Lauren’s elegant touch and flowing compositional style. A classically-trained pianist who chose her own compositional path, her collections of original lullabies, winter music, and other themes have soothed listeners of all ages from around the world. Lauren has also received numerous awards for her exceptional music - including consistent “Picks” on my own website. Lauren’s music is wonderfully expressive, reaching into the depths of her soul to find the truths of her life experience. Her music is always accessible yet complex enough to reveal new layers no matter how often you listen to it. As much as I’ve loved all of Amy Lauren’s previous albums, On Water is my favorite. The music flows effortlessly and would make a lovely backdrop for quiet activities, but do your ears a favor and savor each note.</span></b></i></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px; font-family: Helvetica;"><i><b><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">On Water begins with “Cedar Rush,” a sweetly simple piece that sets the tone of the album. Sometimes gently flowing and sometimes sparkling brightly, it’s a great opener. “Gales of Indigo” is quite a bit darker and more dramatic - one of my favorites. “The Vineyard” is another favorite with its warm and graceful stories told in several sections where each expresses something different. “North Shore” picks up some momentum, conveying serenity as well as turbulence. For me, “The Field Dancer” describes a meadow ballet with grasses and wildflowers moving gently in the breeze - love it! The title track conveys the peaceful quiet of a still pond or lake - a profound calm and breathtaking beauty. “Takoda” translates to “friend of everyone,” and this piece exudes a warmth and contentment that comes from an unburdened heart - in this case, the heart of a puppy. This is my favorite piece from this collection. “Carry This Soul” is a poignant and heartfelt prayer that brings this gorgeous album to a rich and satisfying close. </span></b></i></div>
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<i><b><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Although it’s still early in 2013, On Water could easily be on my Favorites List for the year - solo piano at its best! It is available from </span></b></i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><a href="http://amylaurenpiano.com/" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 139); text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer;"><i><b>amylaurenpiano.com</b></i></a></span><i><b><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">, Amazon, iTunes, and CD Baby. Very highly recommended!</span></b></i>
</div>Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/3128642013-02-15T05:50:00-06:002015-09-24T08:14:04-05:00On Water CDs are HERE!The On Water CDs are here! They arrived yesterday from the manufacturer and look... and sound... fabulous. They're available right now <a href="./onwater.cfm">here</a> on the website (CDs and MP3's), and will be on iTunes, CDBaby, Amazon, and other online retailers within a few days. Let us know what you think of it... leave a review on iTunes or CDBaby, a post on my Facebook page or even just an email to us. We love hearing from everyone! Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/2980362013-02-04T07:46:41-06:002013-02-04T07:46:41-06:00On Water CD releasing in a couple weeks!So excited to share that the <i>On Water</i> CD (music and artwork) has been sent to the manufacturer and should be ready in about two weeks. I should also be getting song samples up here on the website within the next week or so. We're sooooo in love with this CD... and hope you all will like it, too!! We've been selfishly enjoying listening to it and having it all to ourselves while the mastering was being done on it - it's a totally fabulous listen while sitting by the fire, but I'm so ready to have it done so I can share it! Keep checking back for the next update :)Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/2756742013-01-06T06:02:36-06:002013-01-06T06:02:36-06:00"On Water" has been recorded!!The "On Water" CD is done being recorded! We're now on to the mastering and "polishing" part of the CD, which should take about 2-3 weeks. The artwork is done and after the mastering it's off to production. Look for a release in early to mid-February. We're extremely happy with how it turned out and can't wait for everyone to hear it! Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/2532782012-11-18T04:30:00-06:002017-01-13T18:13:57-06:00First Look at the New "On Water" CD!Here's a quick first look at the new <i>On Water</i> CD cover! I took this photo the morning after our photo shoot on the North Shore of Lake Superior. It captures all of the elements of the new CD perfectly and was the obvious choice for the cover. Matt Strieby at Newleaf Design is designing the CD artwork - it's looking fabulous. We're recording the first week in January and releasing it soon thereafter. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/60343/7926bcfdeb8beb2996257975146602e40fd198fd/large/full-resolution-cover.jpg?1390863762" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="397" width="400" /><br type="_moz">Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/2403902012-10-25T09:22:35-05:002012-10-25T09:22:35-05:00August is #2!August is Jingo Records Number Two popular selling CD this last week. HUGE thank you to my new fans in Asia for giving my music a listen and purchasing it - it is very much appreciated!! Check it out <a href="http://www.jingo.com.tw/JingoWeb_sub/web/main/index.aspx">here</a>!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/2064332012-08-29T08:05:00-05:002012-08-29T08:05:00-05:00"August" CD released in Asia...Jingo Records in Taiwan has released the <i>August</i> CD in Asia. This marks the third<br>
album of Amy's that Jingo has released, and we couldn't be more pleased to share <br>
her music with that part of the world. Jingo Records previously released <br><i>Winter & Christmas</i> in 2011, and <i>Beautiful Quiet</i> in early 2012. Make sure you <br>
check it out if you're in Asia, or check it out on their website <a href="http://www.jingo.com.tw/jingoweb_sub/web/main/item.aspx?id=10162"><i>here</i></a>!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1748122012-06-04T09:25:00-05:002021-02-06T02:23:35-06:00New CD Update!!My next CD entitled "On Water" is getting closer! I'm eleven songs into it now, and<br>
all of the music is close to being written for it. As you can probably guess, it's a CD <br>
about the beautiful and elegant mystery of water, waterfalls, nature and everything <br>
"earthy" and organic that surrounds us. I'll be spending the summer refining the <br>
songs and trying to come up with really cool unique names for them, and also <br>
planning the artwork for the CD cover. I'm excited to share new music with all of <br>
you, and I'll keep you informed as the process continues on! Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1507092012-03-23T06:10:00-05:002012-03-23T06:10:00-05:00August Back on the Charts!The <i>August </i>CD is back in the top 100 at Zone Music Reporter for February 2012. The last time <i>August</i> was on the charts was back in September of 2011, ending a seven month run on the charts in 2011, five months of that being in the top 20. We're happy to be back in the top 100!!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1428702012-02-25T05:45:00-06:002012-02-25T05:45:00-06:00Jingo Records releases Beautiful Quiet CD...Jingo Records in Taiwan has released Amy's <i>Beautiful Quiet</i> CD into the market in Asia. This is the second CD of Amy's that Jingo Records has released, and we're so happy to share Amy's music with that part of the world! If you are in Asia be sure to look for it there, or you can check it out on their website <a href="http://www.jingo.com.tw/jingoweb_sub/web/main/item.aspx?id=10109">here</a>!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1335522012-01-13T03:32:06-06:002012-01-13T03:32:06-06:00August in ZMR's Top 100 for 2011...We're thrilled to share that Amy's <i>August </i>CD is <b>number 37</b> in Zone Music Reporter's Top 100 Airplay Chart for new age music in 2011! <i>August</i> spent seven months on the charts in 2011, five months of that being in the top 20. Click <a target="_new" href="http://www.zonemusicreporter.com/charts/Top1002011.asp">here</a> to see the entire Top 100 in 2011... Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1324412012-01-08T01:52:16-06:002012-01-08T01:52:16-06:00August in Whisperings Top 100...August is in the Top 100 on Whisperings Solo Piano Radio! This represents the top half of one percent of the music played on Whisperings... so thank you to all the Whisperings Radio listeners!!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1259522011-11-30T07:45:00-06:002011-11-30T07:45:00-06:00Google MusicFor those of you who are Android users, you can now find Amy's albums at Google Music! Click <a target="_new" href="https://market.android.com/details?id=artist-Af4wwx5z5qekfto4m34l6xrjw7a&feature=search_result#?t=W251bGwsMSwyLDEsImFydGlzdC1BZjR3d3g1ejVxZWtmdG80bTM0bDZ4cmp3N2EiXQ..">here</a> to visit her artist page direct!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1257462011-11-28T07:15:00-06:002011-11-28T07:15:00-06:00Give the gift of music!We've reduced the price on the <i><a href="./winterchristmas.cfm">Winter & Christmas CD</a></i> and <i><a href="./winterchristmassheetmusic.cfm">Winter & Christmas Sheet Music Songbook</a></i> just in time for the Holidays and winter season! The <span style="color: rgb(128, 0, 0); ">CD is now only</span> <span style="color: rgb(128, 0, 0); ">$9.95</span>, and the <span style="color: rgb(128, 0, 0); ">Sheet Music Songbook (which includes ALL 16 songs) is now only $17.95</span>... two huge savings!! Whether it's for yourself or someone else, this award nominated album will bring beautiful sounds into your world whether you're listening, or playing it yourself! Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1199432011-10-24T08:25:00-05:002011-10-24T08:25:00-05:00Winter & Christmas CD Now on Pandora...The Winter & Christmas CD can now be heard on Pandora Internet Radio! For those of you who use Pandora, please check us out on there and be sure to "like" it, or give us a "thumbs up". The more of those we get the more Pandora plays Amy's music, so we appreciate them. Be sure and request Amy's other CDs, too!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1171682011-10-04T09:10:00-05:002021-02-08T02:46:15-06:00August sheet music now available!We now have sheet music available for four songs from the <i>August</i> CD... "I'll Follow You", "Sunset Serene", "August" and "Keeper of Light". Check them out <a target="_new" href="./augustsheetmusic.cfm">here</a>!<br><br>
Additional songs will be made available in the future... tell us which ones you want and we'll add them to the top of our list!!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1169842011-09-18T06:35:00-05:002011-09-18T06:35:00-05:00August Remains in Top 20 of New Age Charts...<i>August</i> holds steady at Number 16 on the New Age Music Charts, staying in the top 20 for the last FIVE MONTHS!!<br><br>
Since it's debut on Zone Music Reporter's Top 100 Chart in March of 2011, <i>August</i> has remained a constant in the Top 20. Voted on by the radio hosts actually playing the music, this CD continues to be played on radio stations all around the world! Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1169762011-09-03T08:00:00-05:002011-09-03T08:00:00-05:00Jingo Records in Taiwan begins releasing Amy's albums in Asia!Jingo Records based in Taiwan has begun releasing Amy's albums into the markets in Asia. Jingo Records is one of the oldest and largest record companies in Taiwan, with over 30 years of experience in producing and licensing Classical, New Age, Jazz CD and Video programs. They are the leading distributor of New Age and Classical music in Taiwan. They work closely with EMI, Sony, Universal, as well as other new age music production houses such as Real Music and EverSound. They also distribute healing music produced by Della, a Japanese production company.<br><br><i>Winter & Christmas</i> was the first album released by Jingo in August of 2011 under the title "Castle in the Snow". Click <a target="_new" href="http://www.jingo.com.tw/jingoweb_sub/web/main/item.aspx?id=10019">here</a> to see it on Jingo's website!<br><br>
We are excited to be a part of Jingo Records, and thrilled that Amy's music is on a new journey to listeners in Asia. Stay tuned for more updates!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1169752011-09-02T09:30:00-05:002011-09-02T09:30:00-05:00"The Lost Lullaby" featured on eScapesTV...eScapesTV has featured Amy's song "The Lost Lullaby" from the <i>Beautiful Quiet</i> CD in a video of Old Mackinac Point Light in Mackinaw City, Michigan as part of their eScapes video library. You can watch the video <a target="_new" href="http://www.escapestv.com/library/2011/08/24/old-mackinac-point-light/">here</a>!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1168732011-09-01T08:40:00-05:002022-05-18T06:03:30-05:00Amy's Music on eScapesTV...Amy's music is now on eScapesTV! eScapesTV is a new cable and satellite television network that broadcasts videos of scenic places around the world and sets them to music, resulting in a fabulously relaxing viewing and listening experience. We're excited to be a part of such calm, soothing programming! You can check out their website at <a target="_new" href="http://www.escapestv.com/">escapestv.com</a>, and their availability in your viewing area.Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1168722011-07-29T10:00:00-05:002011-07-29T10:00:00-05:00New Beautiful Quiet CD Review...New review on the <i>Beautiful Quiet</i> CD from Reviews New Age (translated from Spanish):<br><br><i>An album that shines... highly recommended!</i> The second work of pianist Amy Lauren devoted to lullabies is titled <i>Beautiful Quiet</i> and like their previous CD <i>Close Your Eyes</i>, the atmosphere surrounding it is childish and affectionate, showing delicacy and sensitivity in each of the fifteen compositions comprising it. Amy invites us to depart from the real world for as long as necessary, to forget the cares and problems and focus on rest, <i>Beautiful Quie</i>t is the best tool to achieve this.<br><br>My favorite piece opens the album, "Enchanted Dreams". Notes on a larger scale than do the prelude to the piece, a lovely composition whose life takes on the heights of the piano and where the music is presented poignant and full of light. I like!<br><br>
With the same tenderness that the previous track, "Starfall" appears carefully. Lauren plays the melody that is bright and tender, as if her fingers delicately sprouting countless stars. Beautiful composition.<br><br>
"Around the Moon" is one of those works that have a melody that ends up being familiar with several listeners. Amy has managed to create an interesting music with "Around the Moon", where single notes resonate in the mind to delight the listener. Another of my legacy peripheral!<br><br>
With "Circle of Steps", the pianist shows uncertainty in the beginning to end with joy and emotion, a complicated mix of feelings that Lauren has been able to play. Exciting!<br><br>
One of the topics that will keep the listener captivated until the end is "The Lost Lullaby", a piece where a slight nostalgia and loneliness come together to create a piece especially intimate and masterful. Another Big Beautiful Quiet. This composition is fantastic.<br><br>
The cheerful "Precious Journey", one of the most beautiful "Beautiful Quiet". Your music surrounds the listener with a warm blanket of notes conveys optimism and peace. Gorgeous!<br><br>
"Sapphire Song" has a dark touch. Lauren gives great importance to the breaks are essential in this piece, giving you a powerful feeling and melancholy melody.<br><br>
"There is a Place" is a beauty. Notes that tell a unique and magical spring from the hands of Amy. Another lovely piece radiant life that just needs a voice of sense of melody.<br><br>
Soft and gentle is "Night Again". Again, Amy is based on the higher notes of the piano to play a simple piece of unique and intimate that helps the rest. Absolute tranquility!<br><br>
"Softly Silently" has a delicate strength. The melody travels between notes from the top echelons to convincing the lower chords in the piano singing a sexy music. I like it.<br><br>
"Beautiful Quiet" is the longest composition on the CD, besides being the name given to this. The beginning is confusing, a melody that is repeated ad nauseum is becoming exciting, but always, without leaving the keyboard area where it started.<br><br>
"Evening's Grace" is the shortest piece of <i>Beautiful Quiet</i>, besides being the most repetitive of all, in fact, though soft, is tired, always wielding the same chords.<br><br>
For the first time, Amy gives prominence to the lowest notes of the piano. "Sweetest Blessings" is a gem, a work whose soulful and seductive melody from the first seconds. Lovely, deep!<br><br>
Another linear compositions in terms of melody is "Keep This Prayer", which are continuous accompaniment chords for the melody, which rises in the high notes. In contrast, creates a perfect harmony between arpeggio chords and melody of the right hand.<br><br>
The end is for the enjoyment of our own dreams and to do so by showing "Slumber Dance", a piece that puts music to the deepest dreams. Passionate and delicate at once, this is another of the highlights of <i>Beautiful Quiet</i>. I love it.<br><br>
Taking advantage of the brightness and warmth offered by the top echelons of the piano, the artist plays Amy Lauren fifteen loving and intimate compositions that enjoy their own light. <i>Beautiful Quiet</i> is one of those albums that is highly recommended to childs for rest, thanks to delicate and truly beautiful music that end is reached and really works. <i>Beautiful Quiet</i> is a commendable job and a recommended album!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1168712011-07-17T08:05:00-05:002011-07-17T08:05:00-05:00August on the charts...<i>August</i> is at Number 11 on the New Age Music Charts Top 100 for June 2011, after debuting at Number 29 in March... Zone Music Reporter's Top 100.Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1168702011-02-14T04:45:00-06:002019-12-31T03:04:39-06:00Winter & Christmas Receives Nomination...<i>Winter & Christmas</i> has been nominated for Best Holiday Album at Zone Music Reporter's 2010 Music Awards!!<br><br>We're so excited to share this with everyone, as this is quite an honor to receive. Read more about it here: <a target="_new" href="http://www.zonemusicreporter.com/admin/nominees.asp">2010 ZMR Music Award Nominees</a>!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composertag:www.amylaurenpiano.com,2005:Post/1168662011-01-17T05:40:00-06:002011-01-17T05:40:00-06:00Winter & Christmas in New Age Top 10!<i>Winter & Christmas</i> reached Number 9 on the New Age Music Charts Top 100 in December, after debuting at Number 34 in November of 2010... Zone Music Reporter's Top 100.<br><br>This marks Amy's first time on the New Age Music charts, and we're excited to be in the top 10 with this album!Amy Lauren - Solo Piano - Pianist and Composer