I first attended a “Music for People” seminar 10 years ago in Kiental, Switzerland, where I met Mary Kynsh and David Darling. Since then, both Mary and David have been hugely influential in my approach …
CD Review: Sacred Union
Coming mostly from improvisation, these original compositions blend New Age, World Music, Native American Style Flute Music and Inter-Spiritual Chanting (non-denominational), as invitations to embark on heart-opening journeys, whether peaceful or passionate — with a …
CD Review: Tympanum
Tympanum was recorded live, and contains “in the moment” dramatic duet improvisations by pianist Jane Buttars and cellist David Darling. Their melodies intertwine as they listen deeply through sound and silence. From dancing staccato rhythms …
CD Review: Learning to Fly
Neil Tatar, guitarist/pianist, is a graduate of Music for People’s Musicianship and Leadership Program who currently serves on Music for People’s board. In his new CD Learning to Fly, Neil “winged in” inspiration from memories …
A Voice Teacher Sings Out for the Art of Improvisation
It was in late July 2013, when I (a classically trained singer and voice teacher) felt the wonderment of my first AOI experience with Music for People. Eager for another new and inspiring adventure, I …
Book Review: Innovative Drum Circles: Beyond Beat into Harmony
Book: Innovative Drum Circles: Beyond Beat into Harmony by Mary Knysh Rhythm is the doorway to community connection. Drum circle facilitators know this well. The organizing power of rhythm and music is revealed every day …
Christobal Jacques
A teachers comment on a first grade report card read “ Chris is a fine little boy who loves to sing and dance but that’s all he wants to do” and not much has changed …
CD Review: Ministry of Spontaneous Composition
Ministry of Spontaneous Composition is comprised of free jazz explorations from members of the DC Improvisers Collective. These steller musicians Patrick Whitehead (trumpet and MfP member), Ben Azarra (drums), John Kammon (guitar), Jonathan Morris (keyboard) …
CD Review: Wild Plains
Josée Allard (classical pianist) met her muse when she was acquainted with Norman Nawrocki (Ukranian folk violinist). They originally met to play for fun yet unintentionally ended up creating a CD from their musical explorations …
CD Review: Ecstatic Dances
JoAnne Spies is a singer/songwriter and storyteller who creates stories and song wherever she goes, inviting the listener to join in. In her new CD, Ecstatic Dances, she delivers conscious thought and lessons through the …