Search - Craig Urquhart :: Craig Urquhart: Secret Spaces

Craig Urquhart: Secret Spaces
Craig Urquhart
Craig Urquhart: Secret Spaces
Genres: New Age, Classical
 
  •  Track Listings (11) - Disc #1


     

CD Details

All Artists: Craig Urquhart
Title: Craig Urquhart: Secret Spaces
Members Wishing: 0
Total Copies: 0
Label: Heart Earth Music
Release Date: 5/29/2007
Album Type: Import
Genres: New Age, Classical
Styles: Chamber Music, Historical Periods, Classical (c.1770-1830)
Number of Discs: 1
SwapaCD Credits: 1
UPC: 717621000622
 

CD Reviews

From MainlyPiano.com
Kathy Parsons | Florence, OR United States | 05/30/2007
(5 out of 5 stars)

""Secret Spaces" is pianist/composer Craig Urquhart's seventh album of original piano solos, and clearly demonstrates Urquhart's magic, velvet touch on the piano keys. Urquhart's belief in the healing power of music and nature is expanded on this album to the more personal emotional level. Reflective, contemplative, and extraordinarily intimate, the music is quietly soothing throughout the album. Classically-trained from an early age, and the late Leonard Bernstein's personal assistant in his final years, Urquhart brings a wealth of musical and emotional experience to his music, keeping it direct and uncluttered without being simplistic. Flash is completely unnecessary when the emotions conveyed are this clear. More meditative than melodic, the music is hypnotic and calming. And the sound of that piano - pure listening heaven!



"Secret Spaces" begins with the title track, gently setting the tone of the album. Warm, with a hint of mystery, it's an invitation to a musical exploration. "Contemplation" is very fluid and introspective - a stream of thought given the freedom to meander. "Cathedral Pines" suggests the sanctuary nature can offer our lives. Reverent and hymn-like, it also reflects on the majesty of these wondrous trees. "Romance" has a graceful, dreamy elegance tinged with bittersweetness - a beauty! "Venetian Snowfall" conveys the quiet peacefulness of falling snow and the sparkle of light dancing on the whiteness on the ground. "Forgiveness" is sad but hopeful, reaching out, and giving solace to both the giver and the recipient. As the pitch of the notes gradually rises, you can sense that both people are being uplifted and finding redemption - very moving and evocative. "Meditation" is a soothing balm for a tired or troubled mind. "Virginia Mountain Morning" is the most traditionally melodic piece on the album. Refreshed and renewed, it offers a new beginning and sense of optimism. It's a gorgeous piece and a wonderful conclusion to a standout album.



"Secret Spaces" is my favorite of Craig Urquhart's albums so far. Very highly recommended!"