Music
The best kept secret in music
Press
As the title and soft pastel colors of the artwork imply, Fletcher Harris’ debut album, “Music From the Heart,” is a gentle, soothing collection of original piano solos. The music is not flashy or flamboyant, but the simplicity of the pieces underscores the sincerity of Harris’ approach to composing and playing. In the liner notes, he writes about the origin of each piece, which is always interesting and insightful.
“Beginnings” is Harris’ first composition, written at the age of twelve. It is very mature and expressive for a kid that age, although I’m sure it has evolved over the years - a beautiful piece! “Winding Journey” is more on the ambient side, with a lovely ethereal quality that floats and wanders without a controlling structure. Slightly melancholy and searching, it’s deeply touching. “Forever Hold Me” is a gorgeously passionate love song that flows on a rubato rhythm that emphasizes the emotions involved. The title track is a bit more classical in style, and tells of many different journeys of the heart. “Lost in Thought” is the perfect musical interpretation of what it feels like to be “out there” daydreaming or problem solving, when time loses all meaning and you’re in your own little world - very effective! “Deja Vu” is much darker and more mysterious, and has kind of a Russian flavor. One of my favorites is “A Day of Wandering,” with its rolling triplets in the left hand and searching melody in the right. I love playing pieces like this because I always seem to get lost in them. “To Laura With Love” would be great in a romantic movie soundtrack! “Butterfly” is more of a conceptual piece, and is so delicate that it just floats in the air - exquisite! My favorite track is the closing one, “Swept Away,” which tells the story of a canoe trip among huge boulders, on quiet water, and through the rapids. By varying the tempo and intensity of the music, Harris takes us on quite a tour - a great piece!
“Music From the Heart” is an impressive debut, and I look forward to more music from Fletcher Harris! Music samples are available at www.fletcherharris.com and cdbaby.com, and the cd is available for sale at both sites.
Kathy Parsons
Solo Piano Publications
April 5, 2005 - Kathy Parsons - Solo Piano Publications
Discography
"Music from the Heart" CD released November 10, 2004.
"Keys to the Soul" CD released September 2005.
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
Fletcher began playing the piano at the age of 6. He wrote his first composition when he was 12 years old. Fletcher majored in music in college, however after entering the business world, his music was put on the back burner. After a 21 year career in the aerospace industry, he has now refocussed on his music. With this full time dedication, his music has blossomed. In November 2004, Fletcher released his debut CD of original compositions, "Music from the Heart", which is doing very well. His CD can be purchased locally at Barnes & Noble, CD Baby.com, TowerRecords.com and on his website at www.fletcherharris.com. Fletcher's 2nd CD, "Keys to the Soul" is finished and scheduled for release in early September 2005. Fletcher is currently working on material for his 3rd CD. Fletcher volunteers, performing in the Atrium at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation on Jefferson Hwy. He also performs locally on the northshore at La Provence Restaurant. More information and future events where Fletcher will be performing can be found on his website.
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