Each
of my songs has a story behind it. I usually write about
people and places. Here are the words that describe
each song. After the Rain is about gentle hope--hope
in people and hope that the world can be a better place
Devotion:
I wrote this song about a month after the release of
my first C.D. “Reflections” in late 2002.
This melody came to me instantly at the piano and represents
the staying power of devotion in our lives—to
the ones we love and to the ideals we hold close.
Trust:
A song about letting go and not trying to control every
aspect of life. Sometimes circumstance leaves us wondering.
This song is a musical reminder to let go and trust.
Almost
Home: There is no place like home as the
old saying goes. As I was returning home from a conference
on the east coast, this melody came to me on the plane.
It is truly the only song I’ve ever composed in
my head.
By
Your Side: A song dedicated to the birth
of my second son Bret. I wrote this song just before
he arrived. This song is definitely my favorite on this
recording. A song about commitment to the ones we love.
Autumn's
Song: A song influenced by the power of
a dream. Dreams inspire us to do more than we think
is possible. We forget to dream or are often afraid
to. This song is dedicated to those with a dream and
the passion to follow it.
Journey’s
End: Definitely one of my favorite compositions
for this project. When something comes to an end, that
ending often becomes another beginning. This was the
last song I wrote for this recording. It represents
my growth as a composer, artist, and person.
Warm
as Tears: Dedicated to my father, whom
I lost in June of 2005. This was one of those songs
that literally came to me as I played it. The
melody and supporting structure were under my fingers
instantly. The tears and music express what words cannot.
I
Still Believe: A hopeful song composed
in just a few sessions at the keyboard. This piece communicates
optimism and hope, even in difficult times. Even after
we have fallen, we can get up and find a place where
we can still believe. The pounding descending middle
section gives way to an uplifting ending that fades
from the listener, reminding him or her that faith and
belief always overcome difficult circumstances.
Minuet:
a loose interpretation of J.S. Bach’s minuet in
G. The melody and time signature have been changed.
This is a homage to my classical roots.
After
the Rain: A song of hope. After the rain,
heaven’s gentle tears dry upon your brow, leaving
you with a sense that anything is possible.
If
You Were Here: a slow jazz ballad full
of “jazz” chords. I wrote this song as an
ensemble piece for the smooth jazz group Ruberry Jam.
I’m not really a jazz player, but this was a fun
departure from my typical formula for a song. Just piano,
a little bass, and a simple melodic hook—this
song is full of space. In-between the notes there is
space; in that space is meaning.
|
