Search - Various Artists :: 20 Years of Narada Piano (2-CD Set)

From Solo Piano Publications

Kathy Parsons | Florence, OR United States | 04/30/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This two-CD set is a compilation of previously-released material from past and present pianist/composers from Narada's roster. A few of the selections are from the `80's, but the vast majority are from more recent albums. Several pieces are from previous piano samplers, such as "Piano Solos" (1992), "Romance: Music for Piano" (1994), and "First Light" (1996), which seems a little like cheating, but the collection plays extremely well and it's fun to have a lot of favorite composers on one CD. The styles are varied, and the positioning of the pieces within the collection is exceptionally well done. In the 80's and early `90's, Narada featured a virtual "Who's Who" of so-called new age pianists - David Lanz, Spencer Brewer, Kostia, Wayne Gratz, Ira Stein, Michael Jones, Michael Gettel. Many have gone in other directions or to other labels, but is interesting to see how strikingly individual their styles are. Some of the more-recently signed artists are also featured, including Mia Jang, Michael Whalen, Paul Cardall, and Keiko Matsui. David Arkenstone isn't known as a pianist per se, but his contribution to the "Romance" CD is included. The majority of the pieces in this collection are solo piano, but some of the selections include synth or acoustic ensemble. I find this collection to be exceptionally enjoyable to listen to, and it also serves as a reminder of what an incredibly talented group of artists have graced the Narada label. I highly recommend "20 Years of Narada Piano" for an outstanding collection of easy-going but sophisticated piano music. Great stuff!"

Excellent!!!

Stephen | Salt Lake City, UT United States | 01/14/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This is a 2-CD compilation of Narada piano artists and their various works. I enjoy listenting to the different artists with their different styles, and am amazed at how well they all fit together on this CD. The progression flows from one selection to the next seamlessly. This CD is perfect for after work/school relaxation and it's now become my "reading music". I originally purchased this CD because I enjoy many of the artists featured on it. Through this CD, I have now become acquainted with several other artists and plan to purchase some of their CDs."

Incredible Value Double CD

S. Cairns | Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, United Kingdom | 04/23/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"As part of Narada's 20 Year celebrations, the company has released a double CD in recognition of the prominent part pianists have played in the company's success over this time.This double CD has nearly two and a half hours worth of high quality piano music. It is an absolute must if you enjoy this instrument.As for favourite tracks, where do I begin? Anything by Michael Jones is always of a high standard, and he features three times here. Kostia's "Sunrise" has "beautiful" written all over it. Wayne Gratz's contributions are up to their normal highly melodic standards. Paul Cardall's "Bethel" is an excellent piece for piano. I was delighted to hear "Orcas" from Michael Gettel's stunning album "San Juan Suite". And, to my surprise, I loved Bradley Joseph's "The Glen".With a range of tempos, moods and styles, there are plenty of well known pianists here, as well as some I've never heard of. Certainly, you are unlikely to have many of these tracks already, as quite a few have been out of print for some considerable time.As always with Narada, the sound quality is first class. The discs are well presented, with informative notes. There are 34 tracks in total.Beautiful music, rich in quantity and quality. A rare combination indeed! This 2CD set represents amazing value for money.A very highly recommended album."