American Chanukah

Description

This solo piano CD, contains cherished melodies such as ‘Rock of Ages’, and a beautiful interpretation of the theme from ‘The Moldau’ (used as Israel’s national anthem). There are Chanukah favorites like the ‘Dreydel Song’ and ‘Chanukah Prayer’, along with songs of peace. Also included is the rock band U2’s song ‘One’ in a brand new arrangement that conveys a heartfelt longing for peace and ‘West Bank Serenade’, a Robin Spielberg original, that takes the listener on a journey that is at once moving, hopeful and triumphant

“Several years in the planning stages, Robin Spielberg’s collection of Chanukah songs arranged for solo piano is a masterpiece. One of the most elegant and graceful pianists around, Spielberg keeps the arrangements of the traditional pieces simple, letting the melodies sing their messages of hope and peace. ..Robin researched and arranged songs of Yiddish, Sephardic, Israeli, Ashkenazi , European, and American origin for inclusion in this collection. I’m not Jewish, but love the warmth and beauty of these pieces. Many are rather haunting, but a sense of light and hope prevails throughout.This CD features fourteen tracks of Jewish Sephardic, Ashkenazi, Israeli, Irish and American origin, capturing the feeling of Chanukah, a holiday that is rooted in the belief that when it is darkest, it is always possible to find light. Regardless of the listener’s faith, this CD is a highly enjoyable affair….The music on the “American Chanukah” is of the highest order … Several years in the making, and aided by all manner of people, (including Robin Spielberg’s 99 year old Grandmother at the time of the project) the end result is a stunning CD filled with the most beautiful melodies imaginable. Extremely accessible, the album provides highlight after highlight. There is not a single weak track on this CD, and most certainly no fillers. The extensive notes provided allow the more curious listener to delve deeper into the music and its inspiration, but it works equally as well to the casual piano lover, who wants to be entertained for over fifty-three minutes by memorable, exquisite melodies. A fascinating, deeply personal CD, and one that without question is deserving of the Piano Heaven Gold award. Robin Spielberg has such a delicate touch with the piano, and she and it are as one. Bravo, Ms. Spielberg!” – Stephen Cairns, Piano Heaven (United Kingdom)