A Windham Hill Christmas

Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
The songs are familiar carols, but A Windham Hill Christmas retains the Windham Hill Winter Solstice series tradition of unusual arrangements and performances that evoke the mood of the season, especially if your take on that mood is a Northeast, snow-covered landscape, like that depicted on the Hallmark card-like cover. The usual bevy of Windham Hill sampler artists are all here, but it's some of the secondary cast that give the most innovative performances. Tracy Silverman & Thea Suits reinvent "Silent Night." With his pizzicato-delay violin, Silverman lays down a 6/8 rhythm while abstracting the familiar hymn across his bowed violin and Suits's flute, turning it into an ethereal instrumental chorale. Barbara Higbie re-ignites "In Dulci Jubilo" as a Celtic reel, overdubbing herself on piano, violin, Celtic harp and synthesizer. And W.G. Snuffy Walden lays some rustic acoustic guitar across a chamber reading of "The First Noel." There's a few clunkers, notably George Winston inflicting his Vince Guaraldi infatuation on us again; Jim Brickman with a rote reading of "O Holy Night"; and an uncharacteristically saccharine arrangement of "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" by the usually sublime Tim Story. But Mom and Dad will like them, and they serve to highlight the inventiveness of the rest of A Windham Hill Christmas, which is nostalgic and atmospheric at the same time. --John Diliberto

A Windham Hill Christmas, Music, Various Artists, Adult Alternative, Ambient, CCM, Chamber Jazz, Christmas, Christmas / Chanukkah, Christmas Music, Contemporary Instrumental, Ethnic Fusion, Folk-Jazz, Fusion, Neo-Classical, Pop, Post-Bop, Progressive Electronic, Solo Instrumental, Space, TV Soundtracks, World Fusion, Worldbeat, Xmas Vocal Collections
State of Grace
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Similar to Mehdi???
  • The best of Lizbeth Scott and Paul Schwartz
  • Amazing !!!!
  • To be treasured
  • Enhanting and Soul-Calming
 State of Grace
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. State of Grace II: Turning to Peace
  2. Earthbound
  3. Aria 3: Metamorphosis
  4. State of Grace III
  5. Aria

ASIN: B00004YBZS
Release Date: 2000-10-10

Tracks:

  1. Vent Redemptor Gentium - Lisbeth Scott
  2. Amazing Grace - Lisbeth Scott
  3. Miserere - The Joyful Company Of Singers
  4. Veni Creator Spiritus - Lisbeth Scott/Gavyn Wright
  5. Auguries Of Innocence: Part 1 - Gavyn Wright/David Theodore
  6. Auguries Of Innocence: Part 2 - Gavyn Wright/David Theodore
  7. Be Still My Soul - Lisbeth Scott/Paul Schwartz
  8. Angelica - Lisbeth Scott/Gavyn Wright/Jonathan Williams
  9. Simple Gifts - Lisbeth Scott/Andrew Findon/Dirk Campbell
  10. State Of Grace/Miserere (Remix) - Gavyn Wright/Paul Schwartz

Amazon.com

Producer and composer Paul Schwartz thanks many people on State of Grace, but there is one notable exclusion: the 12th-century nun Hildegard von Bingen. Although these aren't her compositions, echoes of her ecstatic hymns and sequences resound throughout Schwartz's latest electronica-classical opus. He composes his own 21st-century gothic chants, which are sung by the impassioned soprano Lisbeth Scott. Scott is a powerful singer who brings a more emotional, perhaps even lustful, tone to these electro-Gregorian evocations, gliding over synthesizer ministrations and violin from the durable Gavyn Wright. Paul Schwartz was also responsible for the Aria CDs, on which he updated operatic arias with dance beats. State of Grace benefits from the less oppressive rhythmic regimentation, letting these soaring melodies ring out. When Schwartz deviates from his gothic inspirations, State of Grace flags, notably on a predictable rendition of "Amazing Grace," a misguided Celtic take on the Shaker hymn "Simple Gifts," and a trio of instrumentals. --John Diliberto

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Similar to Mehdi??? .......2007-06-14

I had to laugh at the tag "similar to Mehdi"...that's like saying the Beach Boys are similar to the Monkees....

For a while this CD never left my rotation, and I play a lot of music. I still get a quick thrill of anticipation when I run across it in my stacks of CDs, and decide to play it again.

This is spiritual music, true, but it is modern vocal/electronica as much as anything. It has a beat, it has soul, it is full-toned and gorgeous. But not too sweet, as the female vocalist puts grit into the tunes. Don't be put off by "Amazing Grace": yes, its that song, but not like you've ever heard it before. The arrangements add a new feel, and counterpoint the melody in an interesting and new way. All the "familiar songs" are like that: e.g. "Gift to be Simple (AKA Lord of the dance, the Shaker song)". The original works are similarly wonderful. You will be amazed.

Paul Schwarz has found a niche that I hope he never leaves. If he can continue to match the quality, beauty, composition and orchestration on this effort, he will become one of my top favorite artists of all time. (Other artists I enjoy: Enigma, Mark O'Conner, David Arkenstone, Acoustic Alchemy, Lesiem, Mars Lasar, Secret Garden, Bela Fleck, Moby, Bill Douglas, Dave Grusin, Fourplay, David Benoit, Angels of Venice, Loreena Mckennit, Andreas Vollenweider to name a very few. Mehdi is OK to go to sleep to.)

5 out of 5 stars The best of Lizbeth Scott and Paul Schwartz.......2007-05-28

I was totally hooked on this style of music after hearing this CD. It is incredibly deep and beautiful and lyrical and just the kind of music that brings ancient language and sounds to the 21st century. I have all of the music that Lizbeth Scott records - she is a very good writer of her own contemporary style of music. The entire State of Grace series is incredible but this one is my absolute favorite. Right behind this is Aria 2.

5 out of 5 stars Amazing !!!!.......2007-05-14

I too checked a copy of this out of my local library! I put it in my car stereo and rocketed down the interstate but soon had to pull over. I was crying uncontrollably! I could not believe how beautiful Lizabeth's voice was!
I took my copy to a friend of mine, who has a B&O system and played the masterpiece for him. He was positively blown away and plays his copy every night.
I just bought a copy of the disc along with the second version, which I am listening to now.

5 out of 5 stars To be treasured.......2007-01-29

I Treasure this cd, Always. Every listening moment from beginning to end is a joyful journey. With each passing year, State of Grace grows more precious and meaningful to me. I always know where this cd is and turn to it whenever I anxious or afraid and it's peaceful, lovely grace never fails to flood through me, revitalizing my soul. State of Grace puts me into a state of pure peace and assuring grace. I hope you purchase and enjoy this cd as much as I do, it's just beautiful.

My favorite song on the cd is "Be Still My Soul."
Be still my soul, the Lord is on thy side/ Stand calm within, the storm of grief and pain/ Trust in thy God to order and provide/ Through every change, His faithful light remains/ Be still my soul, the restful peace within/ Through trying times leads to a joyful end
Be still my soul, the wind and waves sure know/ The voice who ruled them when He dwelt below/ Torment and doubt have slipped into the past/ All darkened mysteries shall shine at last/ His burning sun shall melt the ice of fear/ Lift up your heart, His soothing voice to hear
Be still my soul, when light you cannot see/ And trembling skies speak to the fear in thee/ The face of God illuminates the light/ Amending peace and trust in perfect light/ Be still my soul, when tears fall from above/ You are divine, eternally in love.

Soar!
o8E

5 out of 5 stars Enhanting and Soul-Calming.......2006-02-01

I stumbled upon this CD at my library and was enchanted by the angel on the cover so I checked it out last week. It is an amazing, soothing, calming, meditative, soul-stirring rendition of music. The voices on the songs are lyrical, haunting and mesmerizing.

"Be Still My Soul" is like a musical tranquilizer, a heartfelt, beautiful melody that brings tears to my eyes every time I listen to it. It makes me feel as if I'm safely enfolded in God's wings and listening to His heart beating just for me.

I'm eager to find more music like this. I highly recommend this if you love soothing, uplifting music.
December
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Excellent CD
  • Good for any age
  • Absolutely Gorgeous! The Best Piano Solo Album Of All-Time.
  • It's Christmas in July
  • Catkin's reveiw
 December
George Winston
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Winter into Spring
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  5. All The Seasons Of George Winston: Piano Solos

ASIN: B000000NFI
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

  1. Thanksgiving
  2. Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head
  3. Joy
  4. Prelude
  5. Carol of the Bells
  6. Night: Part One: Snow
  7. Night: Part Two: Midnight
  8. Night: Part Three: Minstrels
  9. Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel
  10. The Holly And The Ivy
  11. Some Children See Him
  12. Peace

Amazon.com essential recording

December holds the distinction of single-handedly putting Windham Hill on the map and being the new age album most likely to find its way into music collections of all ilk. In spite of being relentlessly overplayed during the holidays, the solo piano recording has aged quite well. Winston shapes holiday war-horses and original compositions into a captivating contemporary statement. His spare, understated style captures the feel of the dark season, employing ample resonance to evoke a reflective spaciousness. The album's straightforward simplicity conveys both the celebration and quietude that characterize the best of the Yuletide spirit. --Richard Price

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Excellent CD.......2007-06-11

December by George Winston is about as close to perfect as you can get. Winston's phenomenal interpretations and originals form a masterpeice. Classified as a Holiday album, this is an album to enjoy all through the year. Although each selection here is very good, Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel is simply a wonderful piece. I did have the pleasure of seeing George Winston in concert and I would receommend that any fan try to experience the music live with introductions by the pianist. I would also recommend December, Piano Solos: 20th Anniversary Edition which is an updated version of this excellent CD.

An outstanding 5 star CD.

5 out of 5 stars Good for any age.......2007-04-09

There is something in this music which has been with ever since I listened to it first time back in 1987. Soundtrack of my life...

5 out of 5 stars Absolutely Gorgeous! The Best Piano Solo Album Of All-Time........2005-12-30

I honestly don't feel it is even the slightest of exaggerations to label this recording as the Greatest Piano Solo Album Of All-Time. Even at nearly a quarter of a century old, it has only become better with age. I was first introduced to "December" at the mature age of 10, and I fell in love with it immediately. My mother would play it at Christmas, time and time again, and oddly enough I never tired of the haunting melodies. In the nearly twenty years since, I've found that while much of the music has a holiday theme, I enjoy listening to the tracks year-round. And in all that time I've found nothing that even comes close to matching the beauty, feeling or power of this exquisite creation. Winston pours such depth and feeling into each compilation that, if you're not careful, you find yourself begin to sway with the melody, much the same fashion as a teenager headbanging to a punk-rock band. But of course this is much more subtle and sophisticated. Truth be told, I credit Winston (and to some degree Chip Davis) with my desire to learn the piano. Fortunately my wife had the foresight this year to do what I could not bring myself to do, and presented me with piano lessons for Christmas. My one desire is to someday be good enough to eek out an intelligible semblance of this timeless album for family and friends at the holidays... but I won't hold my breath. Winston is a Master, and I don't believe I have either the time, nor the talent, to hold even the dimmest of candles to his "bright as noon-day" masterpiece. Enjoy!

5 out of 5 stars It's Christmas in July.......2004-07-27

I am not really big on instrumental music. A lot of it reminds me of that cheeseball Yanni. My favorite instrumentalist is George Winston. I absolutely love his album "December". I have always loved this particular album for as long as I can remember. I remember borrowing my mom's cassette copy of this album several years ago and I still have it to this very day. It is truly one of my personal favorite albums in my entire (almost) 30 years of life. No matter what time of year it is, I can always throw it in and chill to the music. The music is so enchanting. I especially love "Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head". It is one of my personal favorite songs on the album. It truly moves me emotionally. George's piano playing is flawless. It flows like a running stream. I love the simplicity of the music which is just George's piano playing. I think having other instruments would have convoluted the music. I also adore the variations on Pachelbel's "Canon", my personal favorite baroque movement. George does a lovely job with his unique interpretation of the song. After eight hours at the office and listening to my goth/industrial/ebm/techno cds, it is nice to listen to more soothing music to relax too.

5 out of 5 stars Catkin's reveiw.......2003-03-14

i think dat is a very good cd, especially for christmas and we put it on whenever we hav a family time.
Thank-you george!
A Winter's Solstice: Windham Hill Artists
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Music and Memory
  • a soundtrack to a vanished past
  • Refreshing Instrumentals for Christmas, or Any Time
  • A Winter's Solstice
  • Excellent CD.
 A Winter's Solstice: Windham Hill Artists
Philip Aaaberg , Billy Oskay & Michael O Domhnail , and Darol Anger & Mike Marshall
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000000NGH
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

  1. Jesu, Joy Of Man's Desiring - David Qualey
  2. Engravings II - Ira Stein & Russel Walder
  3. New England Morning - William Akerman
  4. High Plains - Philip Aaberg
  5. Nollaig - Bill Oskay & Micheal O Damhhnail
  6. Greensleves - Liz Story
  7. Bach Bouree - Darol Anger & Mike Marshall
  8. Northumbrian Lullabye - Malcom Dalglish
  9. Petite Aubade - Shadowfax
  10. A Tale Of Two Cities - Mark Isham

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Music and Memory.......2007-01-01

Windham Hill has certainly milked this series for a very long time based on the success of this album in the 1980s. Many of its successors are really very good, but this is the seminal Windham Hill artists' statement about music, memory, and seasonal sentiment. Most of the cuts on this album are so well crafted that they may seem simplistic, but what is so telling for me is that the pieces hold up year after year and they possess a magical quality that allows the music to become a part of one's Solstice/Christmas experience. Will Ackerman's "New England Morning" is especially moving in this sense, and certainly seems to capture something elemental about New England in winter. This quality of the music is a tribute to the pure artistry of the performers/composers. Winter's Solstice II also works well on this level of grace and harmony. While the albums that follow the first two are good in many ways, and certainly contain high quality performances, the series sets a high standard with the first two attempts that is very tough to match. Highly recommended at any price.

5 out of 5 stars a soundtrack to a vanished past.......2005-12-24

In the early months and years of my first marriage, this music was the bridge between two people who were not accustomed to building bridges. The emotional resonances that it triggers in me even now make me wonder whether music should be trusted as a reliable means of communication. The answer is, of course, yes; I just have to learn to remember without regret. Five stars, and more. The first, and probably the best, of the Solstice records.

5 out of 5 stars Refreshing Instrumentals for Christmas, or Any Time.......2005-11-07

The Windham Hill "Winter's Solstice" series is a great way to experience Christmas in a musical way. This series goes well with Regency Music's "Winterlude" series (which I have reviewed here).

I thoroughly enjoy acoustic instruments in the making of Christmas music. While keyboards have their place, acoustic instruments have a unique quality and character that brings out the best in Christmas music, something that synthesized sounds lack. "A Winter's Solstice" accomplishes this while presenting a cornucopia of music ranging from classical pieces and traditional carols to folk melodies. Especially important here is the inclusion of non-traditional music that, although not necessarily seasonal, still blends well in the mix.

I have found that the best way to listen to this CD, for me at least, is in a darkened room with only the lights on the Christmas tree for illumination, and perhaps a scented candle for added emphasis. This permits the melodies to flow through me freely, allowing me to deeply experience the music. The CD is especially helpful for those who are stressed out and in need of relaxation.

Windham Hill excels at spotlighting independent musicians without the pomp and vanity forced upon them by the major record labels. Volume 1 is a good starting point, certainly, and is an excellent addition to anyone's Christmas music collection. This volume stands well either alone or with the rest of the series.

If you are looking for a CD that offers something other than the usual "manufactured" commercial, low-quality, over-hyped, cookie-cutter-type Christmas fare, then "A Winter's Solstice" is for you.

4 out of 5 stars A Winter's Solstice.......2005-10-04

If you are a fan of the Winter's Solstice series, than you will enjoy this cd, especially if you like the earlier volumes with the more original pieces rather than mostly traditional christmas music.

5 out of 5 stars Excellent CD........2005-09-04

What a beautiful beginning for the Winter's Solstice collection. I love this music. It drains away all my stress.
A Winter's Solstice II
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Nice Seasonal Music
  • Quite LOVELY for ALL Seasons...
  • The very Best of them all-Still after all these years...
  • Sentimentally Relaxing for Winter, or Anytime
  • Captivating
 A Winter's Solstice II
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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ASIN: B000000NHA
Release Date: 1990-10-25

Tracks:

  1. The Gift - Philip Aaberg
  2. 17th Century Canon - Paul McCandless
  3. Prelude To Cello Suite # 1 - Micheal Hedges
  4. This Rush Of Wings - Metamora
  5. Sung To Sleep - Michael Manring
  6. E'en So, Lord/Dadme Albricias - Modern Mandolin Quartet
  7. 'Bring Me Back A Song.' - Michael O' Domhnaill
  8. Salve Regina - Therese Schroeder-Sheker
  9. Chorale #220 - Turtle Island String Quartet
  10. Simple Psalm - Fred Simon
  11. Flute Sonata In Em - Barbara Higbie & Emily Klion
  12. Come Life Shaker Life - Malcolm Dalglish
  13. Medievil Memory II - Ira Stein & Russel Walder
  14. Abide The Winter - Will Ackerman
  15. By The Fireside - William Allaudin Mathieu

Amazon.com

The Winter Solstice series from Windham Hill is an appealing souvenir from the label's early days, when guitarist Will Ackerman still served as its chief guiding light and fount of original thought. For years Ackerman shunned the overt commercial trappings of traditional Christmas recordings and instead offered odes to a broader season that, like his artists' music, is compatible with periods of sustained, hushed contemplation. Winter Solstice II, released in 1988, mixes original and traditional compositions (none that specifically brings Christmas to mind) and is adorned with classical overtones from front to back, conveying the high-minded earthiness associated with the label's then all-acoustic format. A few pieces on the 50-minute disc clock in at under than two minutes, and a couple others are duds, yet several selections make this quiet disc a worthy listen: a handsome interpretation of Bach ("Prelude to Cello Suite No. 1") on harp-guitar by Michael Hedges, plus gorgeous, yearning piano solos by Philip Aaberg ("The Gift") and Michael Manring. Better known as a bassist, Manring's reworking of one of his own works, "Sung to Sleep," may be the disc's highlight. Ackerman's contribution, "Abide the Winter," and "Medieval Memory II" by the sadly disbanded duo of pianist Ira Stein and oboist Russell Walder, float through the air as beautifully as winter's first snowfall. --Terry Wood

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Nice Seasonal Music.......2006-10-05

The whole Winters's Solstice Series is really first rate. The different styles of music all complement each other and there are enough traditional holiday songs to make the discs nice for holiday gatherings. My wife and I both love Christmas music, but this series goes beyond the holiday season and we do listen to them until Spring. The Windham Hill Christmas series offers very nice arrangements of the more "traditional" , familiar songs that we also enjoy. I think the best testament is that even though this series goes back 25 + years, it still plays well now. The regular familiar arrangements are nice, but this series offers a pleasant alternative. And, they are priced to buy! Put them on shuffle play on a multi disc changer and you won't have to worry about music for any gathering of good friends, family, food and spirits (Christmas and otherwise...)which is what the season is all about...counting your blessings and enjoying life.

5 out of 5 stars Quite LOVELY for ALL Seasons... .......2006-07-07

My first Winter Solstice cd (I started with number 2) & I'm quite impressed! It is completely Instrumental except for a very short beautiful addition of the sound of female voices more like an instrument near the end of one of the selections that adds to it's sweetness. (Normally I do not care for mixing vocals with primarily instrumentals, but this doesn't detract from it at all). I guess you could play this cd in the winter only, but that sure seems like a waste of the opportunity to be soothed year round. The music is reminiscent of the renaissance period & there are no recognizable Christmas tunes (for me anyway). This whole album is perfect for relaxing anytime & will be great at bedtime for me as I usually have trouble winding down to sleep. Overall, I highly Recommend it. There are some very reasonably priced "like new" ones offered by an assortment of sellers here on Amazon (I now have the first cd in this series on the way to me). Peace.

5 out of 5 stars The very Best of them all-Still after all these years..........2006-01-26

After all the years and all the Winter Solstice/Carols of Christmas?Windham Hill Christmas compilations, this is the one I always come back to. It has the most original material, and because of that, it is one of the few Winter Solstice albums you can honestly listen to in July or January or December. Brilliant improvisations by Philip Aaberg begin, and end this disc. One of Ackerman's awesome harp-guitar pieces, a piece by Barbara Higbee which is one of the only I've heard of her flute performances. And the most poignant moments of all - Fred Simon's Simple Psalm. Very moving piano work, complete with chime effects. Simply awesome. There is literally not a single boring or predictable track on this CD; it is a true masterpiece of astonishingly consistent talent all throughout. Yes the first "Winter Solstice" was very good, but this was actually far beyond perfect. THIS is the CD to start with!

5 out of 5 stars Sentimentally Relaxing for Winter, or Anytime.......2005-11-15

This is the second in the "A Winter's Solstice" series. As usual, the good folks at Windham Hill have assembled a masterpiece of music!

If I had to describe musically my feelings of the winter season, this would be it. This compilation is so perfect that, if I close my eyes, I can actually feel myself being transported to the vistas these selections describe.

Here's a sampling of what can be found on this CD:

"The Gift" describes a gentle snowfall. Each note and chord of the piano is a snowflake falling gently to earth amongst a forest of evergreens. "17th Century Canon" brings to mind a scene of an early Main Street, with bells ringing, garland and tinsel gently swaying and children playing in piles of snow. "Prelude to Cello Suite #1," written by Johann Sebastian Bach, becomes a fireplace with the flames dancing over the embers.

"Sung to Sleep" is a mother softly and lovingly singing her child to sleep and telling her child, and herself, that all is well. "Bring Me Back a Song" is actually a medley of traditional Celtic carols. It exudes a warmth of good tidings while causing the listener to reflect on Christmases past.

"Salve Regina" is a tune from the Middle Ages. While not specifically a Christmas piece, it nevertheless fits the mood of the album. "Simple Psalm" is perhaps a rendition of one of the Psalms put to music. The listener's mind may wander to a snow-covered countryside as the sun tries to peek through the clouds.

"Come Life Shaker Life" is a traditional Shaker hymn which celebrates life and the joy of living. "Medieval Memory II" is another mood piece that fits well in the canon. This piece brings to mind a winter's evening with a light snowfall, and is a reflection of "peace on earth" at winter time. "Abide the Winter" brings to mind a scene of winter's last days when both flora and fauna return. Birds are happily singing and the first flowers are poking their heads through old snow as spring prepares to make a return. "By the Fireside" is a scene of a fire in the hearth while family and friends sit around and recall visions of winters past and of dreams for the future.

The music presented here makes "A Winter's Solstice II" a great album for retrospect and meditation. Certainly a good addition to any Christmas music collection, especially for listeners who wish to experience a musical journey of the mind and soul. Five stars plus!

5 out of 5 stars Captivating.......2005-01-26

I was shopping in a store in Berkeley several years ago and they happened to be playing this album. I had never heard anything like it so I asked what the album was. The saleswoman had to go upstairs to find out and I'm so glad she did. It was my introduction to Windham Hill which led me to several of their artists who have become my favorites (particularly Nightnoise and Metamora) and many more of their albums that I now have. As other reviewers here have noted, the music is perfect background music for dinner parties, holidays or anytime you want to feel mellow. I particularly like the pieces with minor key fiddle music that remind me of pioneer folk music. I didn't hesitate to buy it after hearing a few of the songs. The samples here should convince you too.
A Winter's Solstice, Vol. 6
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Thought provoking, a classic for all seasons
  • Some good gems, but my least favorite of series
  • Slow pace Christmas treat, sit back and enjoy....
  • By far the best of the Winter Solstice series
  • Beautifully Broad Appeal
 A Winter's Solstice, Vol. 6

Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. A Winter's Solstice, Vol. 5
  2. A Winter's Solstice II
  3. A Winter's Solstice III
  4. A Winter's Solstice, Vol. 4
  5. A Winter's Solstice: Silver Anniversary Edition

ASIN: B000000NMS
Release Date: 1997-08-12

Tracks:

  1. Joyful Times - Marion Meadows
  2. Ursa Major - Michael Hedges
  3. Northern Lights - Lisa Lynne
  4. Simple Praise - Joanie Madden
  5. Secret Places - Todd Cochran
  6. Sonata For Two Clarinets (2nd Movement) - Richard Stolzman
  7. Quiet Time - Jim Brickman
  8. Winkus McGinkus - Sean Harkness
  9. In The Winter's Pale - Tim Story
  10. Snowfall - Liz Story
  11. Yesterday's Rain - W.G. Snuffy Walden
  12. Snow Dance - David Arkenstone
  13. This Clearness Of Light - Will Ackerman
  14. January Stars - George Winston
  15. Western Sky - Brian Keane, Michael Manring, Paul McCandless

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Thought provoking, a classic for all seasons.......2006-03-10

This is great music, period. Though it really is appropriate for any time of the year (and I just cannot go almost an entire year without listening to this one), it simply would not be Christmas without this disc. I defy anyone to hear this while reading by the glow of a fire and say that they don't like it.

This is the best of the first series of six Winter Solstice discs (seven if you count the "Silver anniversary edition" of Vol. 1), though I found all six enjoyable to some degree. I find that I can only hear so many versions of the "classic" Christmas songs before I tire of them, especially with repeat playings. Winter Solstice VI gives you an excellent alternative to the tried-and-true. So put this one on, kick back, and enjoy where this collection of songs takes you. All the songs are wonderful in their own way, though "Western Sky" alone would have made it worth the cost of buying this one.

3 out of 5 stars Some good gems, but my least favorite of series.......2002-12-19

There are some good moments on this one, but this is my least favorite of Winter Solstice series. I think Windham Hill did return to form & quality with their next offering, "A Winter Solstice Reunion". This one opens with an uncharacteristically "smooth-jazz" piece called "Joyful Times".
"Yesterday's Rain" & "Snow Dance" are pleasant, but to my ears they are in a similar vein. (Perhaps more New Age-like). And "Western Sky" is similarly pretty, but at nearly seven minutes, it becomes a bit long & repetitive. This is the most uneven disc to date. The earlier discs contained quiet, often acoustic pieces that weren't quite as slickly (over) produced. Most likely this reflects the departure of Will Ackerman a few years before, and I believe Dawn Atkinson may not have worked on this one either though I may be mistaken. There are still some great gems here, such as Michael Hedges' "Ursa Major", Liz Story's "Snowfall" & Tim Story's great contributions .

5 out of 5 stars Slow pace Christmas treat, sit back and enjoy...........2000-12-02

This is the most relaxing Christmas Music. Each note is in a way a Christmas Present for your ears. The Celtic influence is a lovely change and you can feel a sense of Christmas magic is woven through this CD. Some pieces are Jazzy, but still laid back. "Secret Places" is in a way haunting. "Snow Dance" is serious, while "Western Sky" is all encompassing and classic. You really can't feel rushed when you want to listen to this music. I won't let you rush at all, it will make you sit down and sip hot spiced apple cider! Take a deep breath...you can do this....

5 out of 5 stars By far the best of the Winter Solstice series.......2000-11-23

I have bought several of the Winter Solstice records as an alternative to the usual fare including "Winter Solstice Reunion",and "Solstice on Ice" which came after this release and which I thought were substantial disapointments.Winter Solstice VI is by far better than those and better than the original Winter Solstice releases as well which originally led me to hear this cd.

5 out of 5 stars Beautifully Broad Appeal.......2000-09-28

The Windham Hill Winter Solstice series started out as primarily holiday music. In this sixth, and perhaps the best, incarnation, that no longer appears to be the case. Consequently, enjoying this beautiful music is not linked to the Christmas season. One need not feel the least bit self-conscious about playing this CD in July or August. And what a break that is; this music is too pretty to be couped-up for 11 months out of the year and only enjoyed for one. So enjoy it when the snow flies and also around the pool with a tall glass of lemonade.
Celtic Christmas: A Windham Hill Sampler
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Celtic Christmas
  • A Holiday Favorite
  • Celtic Christmas, A Windham Hill Sampler
  • Ethereal transport
  • Haunting, soothing music
 Celtic Christmas: A Windham Hill Sampler
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. Celtic Christmas, Vol. 2 [Windham Hill]
  2. Celtic Christmas, Vol. 3
  3. Celtic Christmas IV
  4. A Celtic Christmas: Peace on Earth
  5. The Very Best of Celtic Christmas

ASIN: B000000NL7
Release Date: 1995-09-12

Tracks:

  1. When The Snow Melts - Phil Cunningham/Manus Lunny
  2. Solus - Triona Ni Dhomhnaill
  3. On A Cold Winter's Day/Christmas Eve - Kevin Burke/Michael O' Domhnaill
  4. The Winter's End - Liam O' Flynn
  5. Ciara - Luka Bloom
  6. Nollaig Na Mban - Cormac Breatnach
  7. Third Carol For Christmas Day - Maighread Ni Dhomnaill/Donal Lunny
  8. Snow On High Ground - Nightnoise
  9. Galacian Carol - Carlos Nunez
  10. Soillse Na Nollag - Altan
  11. King Holly, King Oak - Johnny Cunningham
  12. Snow - Loreena McKennitt
  13. We Follow A Star - Jeff Johnson/Brian Dunning

Amazon.com

Another satisfying collection of Celtic music, traditional and contemporary, that includes such modern-day folkies as Luka Bloom and, for the lack of a better term, New Age composer Loreena McKennitt. Fans who remember Planxty, the Bothy Band, Silly Wizard, and Capercaillie will embrace the performances here by individual members of those critically acclaimed and popular groups. Nightnoise singer Triona Ní Dhomhnaill, who was once described as one of the greatest voices of the century, sings a haunting piece called "Solus," while her brother and former Bothy Band fiddler Kevin Burke create an enchanting place on "On a Cold Winter's Day/Christmas Eve." In the end, Celtic Christmas really is all of a piece. Each work stands on its own, but taken together they form real feelings for the holiday that run from reverence to revelry and from joy to solitude. Moody and transcendent stuff. --Martin Keller

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Celtic Christmas.......2007-03-08

A very nice, relaxing cd and one that can be played all year long.

5 out of 5 stars A Holiday Favorite.......2007-01-05

Nice variety of Celtic songs for the Holidays and all the days after! Perfect for playing in the background during dinner and a bit louder during clean-up!

5 out of 5 stars Celtic Christmas, A Windham Hill Sampler.......2006-12-17

This is one of my favorite Christmas discs. I actually listen to it all year long.

5 out of 5 stars Ethereal transport.......2005-09-18

My husband gave this CD to me in 1995. I fell in love with it then, and love it just as much today. I even listen to it in the middle of summer when I long for cold weather and the holiday spirit. It is music of ethereal transport.

5 out of 5 stars Haunting, soothing music.......2001-12-10

This is a beautiful recording, very soothing and melodic. Windham Hill's music is needed in these troubled times.
Windham Hill Christmas: I'll Be Home for Christmas
Average customer rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
  • Mellow Christmas sound
  • Beautiful Holiday Music
  • Peaceful Christmas
  • Great Christmas background music
 Windham Hill Christmas: I'll Be Home for Christmas
Various Artists
Manufacturer: RCA
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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Similar Items:
  1. A Windham Hill Christmas: The Night Before Christmas
  2. Windham Hill Christmas II
  3. A Windham Hill Christmas
  4. Essential Winter's Solstice
  5. The Carols of Christmas: A Windham Hill Collection

ASIN: B0002ZYDJ2
Release Date: 2004-10-12

Tracks:

  1. Bring A Torch Jeanette Isabella - Brian Dunning
  2. Good King Wenceslas - Jim Brickman
  3. Angels From The Realms Of Glory - Barbara Higbie
  4. Christmas Time Is Here - Sean Harkness
  5. Holy Night - Tracy Silverman
  6. Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas - Liz Story
  7. Little Drummer Boy - Steve Erquiaga
  8. A Child Is Born - Paul McCandles
  9. Winter Wonderland - Philippe Saisse
  10. I'll Be Home For Christmas - Giovanna Imbesi
  11. The Holly And The Ivy - Tim Story
  12. Sussex Carol - George Winston
  13. The Compleat Nutcracker Sweet - Philip Aaberg
  14. Yazala Abambuti - Philip Aaberg

Amazon.com

The Windham Hill regulars are back with another unhurried compilation of holiday songs, both old and new. Fans of the previous sets will indubitably love this one too; that these are highly skilled musicians is beyond question. But people who tend to prefer jazz, classical or world music will probably get a tad squirmy about half-way through. Why? Because this genre of music can sometimes come across as pallid, self-absorbed and antiseptic. But certain tracks will find adherents regardless--Barbara Higbee's iridescent Angels From The Realms Of Glory is a definite keeper, as is Yazala Abambuti, with dulcet vocals by the great Ugandan singer, Samite. But Philip Aaberg's The Compleat Nutcracker Sweet can only be explained by the widespread proliferation of Attention Deficit Disorder. His piano condensation displays an arch, tongue-in-cheek playfulness that might hopefully inspire interest in the original Tchaikovsky ballet, which is not all that long, really. --Christina Roden

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Mellow Christmas sound.......2007-01-10

Played it for 3 weeks. Kept me calm in a hectic season.

5 out of 5 stars Beautiful Holiday Music.......2005-09-19

I love this CD, I'm sure I will be playing it all through the holiday season.

4 out of 5 stars Peaceful Christmas.......2004-12-30

I have long been a fan of the Windham Hill Christmas collections, all the way back to the original 1985 release, "A Winter's Solstice". That, and all the subsequent CD's, have been successful to varying degrees in providing an easy, relaxing musical antidote to an often hectic holiday season. The stable of musicians has always been first-rate, from guitarists to pianists, from electronic composers to the occasional vocalist. Some releases, of course, have been less impressive than others ("Winter's Solstice on Ice" was a strange misstep). And the current "Windham Hill Christmas" series has been pleasant enough, if a bit bland. But this latest collection has a particularly warm, and yes, homey feel. Consisting almost entirely of piano and guitar compositions, it effectively conveys the peaceful mood intended. Most of the tunes are quite familiar, save the closing track by Samite, "Yazala Abambuti". Philip Aaberg's "Complete Nutcracker Sweet" is a whimsical five-and-a-half piano condensation of Tchaikovsky's familiar ballet music, and Barbara Higbie's rendition of "Angels from the Realms of Glory" (a carol not heard much these days) is sublimely beautiful. George Winston reminds us once again that he can play harmonica ("Sussex Carol"), but frankly, I would have rather heard him on piano. But just about every track here has a luminous and inspiring quality to it, like all the best Windham Hill music has. It's perfect for background, but even better for those rare moments when you can just put your feet up with a glass of eggnog, and watch the Christmas tree lights in the dark.

5 out of 5 stars Great Christmas background music.......2004-11-28

The recording is great background music since there are no vocals. It provides a great Christmas mood without being obnoxious. There is a good mix of secular and religious songs. The Nutcracker Sweet is interesting - done on the piano and kind of jazzy but still retains the charm of the original!
Celtic Christmas, Vol. 2 [Windham Hill]
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Lovely Celtic music
  • celtic christmas 11
  • Where's the Christmas!
  • A FANTASTIC CD!!!
 Celtic Christmas, Vol. 2 [Windham Hill]
Kevin Burke; Michael O Domhnaill , and Maighread Ni Dhomhnaill
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Celtic Christmas: A Windham Hill Sampler
  2. Celtic Christmas, Vol. 3
  3. Celtic Christmas IV
  4. A Celtic Christmas: Peace on Earth
  5. Celtic Christmas (Silver Anniversary Edt)

ASIN: B000000NLM
Release Date: 1996-09-17

Tracks:

  1. Chanonry Point - Phil Cunningham/Manus Lunny
  2. Amanecer - Carlos Nunez
  3. The Wexford Carol - James Galway
  4. Brid Og Ni Mhaille - Nightnoise
  5. The Day's Last Light - Seamus Egan
  6. Muladach Mi Is Mi Air M'Aineol - Capercaillie
  7. Listen To The River - Luka Bloom
  8. Marbhna Luimni - Deiseal
  9. After Aughrim's Great Disaster - Triona Ni Dhomhnaill
  10. The Star Of The County Down / Sweeney's Butterm... - Kevin Burke Michael O Dhomhnaill
  11. I'll Rock You To Rest - James Galway
  12. Johnny Seoighe - Maighread Ni Dhomhnaill
  13. Lament - Brian Dunning/Jeff Johnson
  14. The Dove's Return - Aine Minogue

Amazon.com

A lullaby of an album, Celtic Christmas II features two James Galway flute pieces ("The Wexford Carol" and "I'll Rock You to Rest") that set the tone for this gentle collection. Some of the usual suspects, Nightnoise, folkie Luka Bloom, Capercaillie, Triona Ní Dhomhnaill, and others, appear on the 14-track survey of more Celtic music. Flutes and tin whistles seem to dominate the instrumental range here, underscored by strong vocal performances such as Maighread Ní Dhomhnaill's "Johnny Seoighe" and of course a lament or two. Would Christmas be any more joyful if it weren't balanced by world-weary ballads, dirges, and heartsick songs? The Irish know and so they wisely indulge in both the light and the dark. --Martin Keller

Customer Reviews:

5 out of 5 stars Lovely Celtic music.......2003-11-30

This 56 minute CD contains beautiful Celtic music. It is not your typical hodge podge of "various artists". This CD flows nicely from song to song. One especially nice feature of this CD is the 8 page booklet with liner notes. This includes the lyrics (and English translations, if needed). The liner notes also list musicians and other credits. I especially enjoyed Muladach Mi Is Mi Air M'Aineol by Capercaillie. Recommended to anyone who enjoys Celtic music.

5 out of 5 stars celtic christmas 11.......2000-12-11

I love this music--it is so relaxing--I listen to it all year

2 out of 5 stars Where's the Christmas!.......1999-12-04

Beautiful listening but badly named. The only seasonal piece on the album was James Galway's arrangement of the Wexford Carol. There are songs about fish, unrequited love, the Great Famine, defeat in battle... heaps of Celtic stuff well worth listening to, but not if you want holiday music. For midwinter celebration you'd do well to give this album a miss and try Celtic Christmas III instead.

5 out of 5 stars A FANTASTIC CD!!!.......1998-12-14

This cd is very relaxing. The bagpipes are great I recomend this cd to everyone!
Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas
Average customer rating: 5 out of 5 stars
  • Strum and Pick
  • Relax with Slack Key
  • Kauai Meets Christmas - Best of Both!
  • If you love Hawaiian Slack Key, you'll love this!
  • Christmas in Hawaii, warm and mellow!
 Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas
Various Artists
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

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  1. Ki Ho'alu Christmas: Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar
  2. Christmas Day in Hawaii Nei
  3. Christmas on Big Island
  4. Hawaiian Style Christmas V.1
  5. Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Masters Collection, Vol. 2

ASIN: B00004Y9ZM
Release Date: 2000-09-26

Tracks:

  1. Jingle Bell Rock - Ozzie Kotani
  2. Joy To The World - Moses Kahumoku
  3. Silver Bells - Led Kaapana
  4. Away In A Manger - Keola Beamer
  5. Merry Christmas To You - George Kuo
  6. My Hawaiian Christmas - Dennis Kamakahi
  7. Jingle Bells - Led Kaapana/Bob Brozman
  8. Winter Wonderland - Cindy Combs
  9. The First Noel - Ozzie Kotani
  10. O Come All Ye Faithful - Bla Pahinui
  11. Holy! Holy! Holy! - George Kahumoku
  12. We Wish You A Merry Christmas - Leonard Kwan
  13. O Holy Night - Joanie Komatsu/Ruth Komatsu
  14. Auld Lang Syne - Cyril Pahinui/Bob Brozman

Amazon.com

Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas is genre melding of the best sort: incredible guitar playing in the Hawaiian tradition dominates the disc, but the material is mostly familiar holiday carols. The result is a truly original and refreshingly low-key take on Christmas music. Keola Beamer's version of "Away in a Manger" is filled with jazzy bass touches; Led Kaapana and Bob Brozman's "Jingle Bells" is a hard-driving and virtuosic showpiece, with Brozman seemingly working the entire fretboard; and Bla Pahanui's arrangement of "O Come All Ye Faithful" is gorgeous and creative. Ozzie Kotani's "First Noel" is understated but a touch too sentimental and the three vocal tracks--by Dennis Kamakahi, Leonard Kwan, and Joanie & Ruth Komatsu--seem out of place amid all these lush guitar textures. That said, this is still a great album and a wonderful alternative for guitar lovers who've worn out their copies of John Fahey's legendary Christmas album. --Jason Verlinde

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Strum and Pick.......2007-01-18

I grew up listening to and playing some slack key. The CD I ordered came to me in excellent shape and within the time frame I was given. I have taken it to my aquatic classes during Christmas and the ladies all loved it! Thank you Amazon and your extended family they do a really good job.

Mahalo,

Jeanne

5 out of 5 stars Relax with Slack Key.......2007-01-10

This compilation album features many artists not well known outside Hawaiian music circles. The music is very soft, quiet, relaxing and in general enjoyable. We played it over the holidays and the music was great for background music. It also became my favorite gift-wrapping music, too, right along with the Brothers Cazimero, Hawaiian vocalists.

5 out of 5 stars Kauai Meets Christmas - Best of Both!.......2002-05-31

My family and I travel to Kauai each year, and we love Hawaiian slack key guitar music. Since we have gathered a pretty extensive collection of traditional Christmas music, we were looking for something different, but NOT "cheezy" or over-commercialized, and this CD fit the bill perfectly. Great combination of reflective Christmas music, with a soothing slack key presentation style. Wonderful!

5 out of 5 stars If you love Hawaiian Slack Key, you'll love this!.......2001-12-23

I can't get enough of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar, so when I saw that this CD was released I immediately bought it.

It is perfect for the holidays! Brings me back to Hawaii. I love it!

5 out of 5 stars Christmas in Hawaii, warm and mellow!.......2000-09-30

This is a great follow-up to Dancing Cat's award winning Ki ho'alu Christmas CD from 1996. This new CD features many of Hawaii's top slack key players performing original and traditional holiday favorites in the slack key style. Also includes the last recordings of slack key master Loeonard Kwan who just passed away in August. We all can't go to Hawaii this Christmas but this is the next best thing! BEN...
The Nutcracker Suite
Average customer rating: 4 out of 5 stars
  • Sugar Plum Mandos!
 The Nutcracker Suite
The Modern Mandolin Quartet
Manufacturer: Windham Hill Records
ProductGroup: Music
Binding: Audio CD

GeneralGeneral | Jazz | Styles | Music
GeneralGeneral | New Age | Styles | Music
General ChristmasGeneral Christmas | Holiday | Miscellaneous | Styles | Music
General ChristmasGeneral Christmas | Holiday Music | Special Features | Music
ASIN: B000000NIV
Release Date: 1991-07-01

Tracks:

  1. Nutcracker Suite: Overture
  2. Nutcracker Suite: March
  3. Nutcracker Suite: Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy
  4. Nutcracker Suite: Russian Dance
  5. Nutcracker Suite: Arabian Dance
  6. Nutcracker Suite: Chinese Dance
  7. Nutcracker Suite: Dance of the Mirlitons
  8. Nutcracker Suite: Waltz of the Flowers
  9. Winter from the Four Seasons: Allegro Non Molto
  10. Winter from the Four Seasons: Largo
  11. Winter from the Four Seasons: Allegro
  12. Overture from the Magic Flute
  13. Winter's Chill

Customer Reviews:

4 out of 5 stars Sugar Plum Mandos!.......2004-11-18

This is a great CD. I got it in 1991 when it came out way before I was into the mandolin. Now that I play (try at least), I can really appreciate the talent on this disc. If you love mandolin music this is a must have. If you love Christmas music this is a wonderful departure from the standard choral or traditional orchestral fare. This CD gets lots of play time in my house.

Music:

  1. Abba Pater [Import]
  2. Almost There [DualDisc]
  3. Amazing Grace - A Country Salute to Gospel, Vol. 1
  4. Anybody Out There?
  5. Beauty for Ashes
  6. Beauty Has Grace
  7. Bedtime Prayers: Lullabies & Peaceful Worship
  8. Behind the Eyes
  9. Celtic Twilight, Vol. 3: Lullabies
  10. Christmas at the Brooklyn Tabernacle

Music

Music