Mood music has been popular for a very long time. Way, way before New Age music was established, we've had compositions like "The Planets" by Gustav Holst, "Water Music" by Handel, and "Snowflakes are Dancing" by Claude Debussy. Of course, it wasn't called "mood music' back then, but people loved the idea of listening to something titled "Grand Canyon Suite" and being led by the music through what the composer experienced. Pieces like "On the Trail" and "Painted Desert" led the listener through the composer's imagination and allowed for a journey into sound. New Age piano continues this love of descriptive music and has made it's own contributions. CDs like George Winston's "December" are platinum-selling albums because they allow listeners to experience the feeling of walking in snow on a cold winter's day or reminiscing about the upcoming holidays! The CD "Yosemite" by Rick Erlien also celebrates nature's beauty through music and has also been a best seller. It's not surprising. After all, people have loved descriptive music for centuries now! The great thing about New Age piano is that it's quite easy to learn! Years of studying theory and harmony are not required. In fact, because of its improvisational approach, students can jump right in and begin creating their own unique music right away! |
