I’m not sure what it’s like in your part of the world, but mine is triple digit HOT. I’m seriously missing the lush greenery, the cooling water, and the lovely humidity of northern Missouri where I stayed for a week to attend a Memorial Day weekend family reunion. Highlights included hanging with [...]]]> Dear Friends,

I’m not sure what it’s like in your part of the world, but mine is triple digit HOT. I’m seriously missing the lush greenery, the cooling water, and the lovely humidity of northern Missouri where I stayed for a week to attend a Memorial Day weekend family reunion. Highlights included hanging with my cousin Bobbi (who took pictures of me getting my feet wet in the Mississippi), seeing a fox from only a few feet away, attending church at the Shrine of St Patrick whilst my Aunt Ellen played organ and my cousin Laddy served at the altar, meeting a cousin I didn’t even know I had (Mary Ann), having a great time with her and Bobbi (we “girls” giggled so much we nearly drove my Aunt crazy), and going four-wheeling with my cousin Cyndy. I hope to go back for another visit soon.

I am thrilled to announce that organist James Thomas David Gonder will be performing the Canadian premiere of my work Danse des Esprits in September 2010 as part of a concert in Toronto, Ontario. Progress continues as well on the indie film Lukisan Hati, which has seen a flurry of media attention after an official launch and press screening in Malaysia. Work continues on an English translation, and the film will soon be available for downloading via the Youngstreet website (www.youngstreet.com.my). I’ll be sure to keep you posted as more news develops.

This month my CD Following My Heart received a 5/5 rating in a review by Alejandro Clavijo, of Reviews New Age, in Spain. You can read the original review in Spanish here, www.reviewsnewage.com/janeellen.html, and you can find an English translation posted on my website. Keyboardist Wilma Gantz touched base to let me know that she performed my arrangement of ‘Love Divine’ in May, for services at La Vida Llena Healthcare in Albuquerque.

The summer lecture term is in full swing at OASIS, and I’m looking forward to a composition workshop I will be giving to young students in July. The autumn is shaping up quickly, and I am booked for lectures at the JCC of Greater Albuquerque, at the Osher Institute at the University of New Mexico, and will also be teaching classes in music theory and beginning composition at the Washington campus of the New Mexico School of Music.

See you next month!

Follow your heart,
Jane

He also kindly provided an English translation, which is as follows:

‘Following My Heart’ is the fourth publication of piano solos the versatile pianist and composer [...]]]> My new CD has just received a 5/5 review from Alejandro Clavijo, of Reviews New Age (Spain). You can read the original review here (in Spanish): www.reviewsnewage.com/janeellen.html

He also kindly provided an English translation, which is as follows:

‘Following My Heart’ is the fourth publication of piano solos the versatile pianist and composer Jane Ellen, besides being the last work that closes a trilogy of albums that began in 2004 with the album ‘From My Heart’ and later, ‘Seasons of the Heart’. Written in the summer of 2009 (a very tough year on the personal for the artist), ‘Following My Heart’ is composed of fourteen tracks of multiple hues. Halfway between New Age and Jazz, Jane gives us a perfect background music to enjoy a moment of utter isolation, or in good company. Beautiful and peaceful pieces suitable for relaxation, meditation or the most romantic moments, some of them, adorned with beautiful instruments accompanying the piano for Jane.

Accompanied by percussion of Kenn Battat and bass of Sid Fendley, Jane brings to life “Raindance”, the most optimistic and cheerful piece of this album. With rhythm, the piano plays a fun melody, conveying positive energy and Life to the listener. Fantastic piece and one of my favourites!

“Keeper of my Heart” is the longest track on the album, almost five minutes and presents a loving and tender melody with a small degree of nostalgia. The arpeggios in the low area of the piano and the sad melody that draws the right hand, maintain an emotional and sweet conversation. Beautiful!

With nostalgia and melancholy, Jane plays “Vision of the Past.” With a gentle start, nostalgia becomes a painful sadness, a melody that flows slowly offering a disheartening tone to the piece. Tribute for those who are no longer among us.

Some little bells give way to “Garden of Memory”, again, a beautiful and captivating piece that makes nostalgic remembering beautiful moments lived. An amazing piece where the piano is accompanied by a wind instrument that emphasizes more so the feeling of longing. Simply wonderful and exciting. Another of my favourites!

“Deep Peace” is a perfect theme for times of quiet. Hypnotic, soft chord progressions are accompanied by furtive high notes, creating a pleasant environment, ideal for moments of reflection or rest.

A prayer to heaven is launched “High King of Heaven.” A warm and friendly composition that fills the listener of well-being is reproduced by the right hand, while the left accompanies graceful playing chords and progressions. A beautiful piece that puts a smile on the listener. I love it.

With “Colours of My Life” back the rythm. Thanks to the percussion of Ken and Sid Bass, The Jane’s piano returns exciting and waited touch smiling of the beginning. A energetic melody makes this piece is fascinating. Again, another of my favourites! Wow!

The most romantic theme of this work is entitled “Circle in Time”, where Dan Wright accordion joins in harmony with the gentle piano melody that draws Jane. Both give life to a piece with air Argentine italo, a music between from the magnificent tango and the passionate Italian music, all interspersed with images of Bella Italia. Amazing piece, suprising!. Another of my favourites!

“Early One Morning” is lively, where Jane’s piano playing a marvellous melody, rhythmic, accompanied by delicate percussion of Ken and his “hat hit” that follows the piano from start to finish, marking with the low notes of keyboard the tempo of the piece. Not being too fast, the piece is ideal as background music for an evening in good company. Another of my favourites!

“Hold Fast to Dreams” has the most moving melody throughout the album. With great excitement, Jane will give life to a piece that manages to captivate the listener. It’s amazing the feelings that surface when he heard this wonderful piece. Another of my favourites!

“Haven of Stone” draws the heart to an overwhelming sense of loneliness and a feeling of loss. A piece, which gives life the sad arpeggios of the left hand and a brought down melody that draws the right hand. Very depressed.

A touch on the high notes of the piano give way to “Autumn Skies,” a lighthearted piece, with an air of freedom that invites you to dream with a colorful place, bathed with a reddish sky. A beautiful melody that soothes the soul.

“Late at Night” is an extremely calm and relaxed, perfect for start a dream. With a course slow, the melody makes her way to silence, providing a unique sensitivity to the track, delicate, soft. Perfect for moments of relaxation or meditation. Another of my favourites!

A pleasant surprise awaits us in the last track of this work. “Follow Your Heart” is a song endowed with a startling beauty. Sweet and personal voice of Jane appears making perplex to the listener. An unexpected and stunning end for this amazing album. Wow!

‘Following My Heart’ is a work has a unique sensibility. An intimate musical background for unforgettable moments, perfect to enjoy in good company or just to indulge in a deep listening and to rest. It’s amazing! ‘Following My Heart’ is an album highly recommended and is available on Amazon, CDBaby, and iTunes.

I hope you’re all enjoying the arrival of spring (or autumn, depending on your location!). I travelled by train to Santa Fe this month and was able to rest and recharge for a few days, but I am now back in Albuquerque with lots of news to share!

Excitement about the independent [...]]]> Dear Friends,

I hope you’re all enjoying the arrival of spring (or autumn, depending on your location!). I travelled by train to Santa Fe this month and was able to rest and recharge for a few days, but I am now back in Albuquerque with lots of news to share!

Excitement about the independent film Lukisan Hati continues to build. Trailers from this film, a touching story about love and friendship as seen through the eyes of five teenagers and which features my music, are now popping up on YouTube and Facebook. The producers are also working toward a television premiere, as well as screenings in Singapore. For those of you who have been asking, I’m happy to let you know that there will be an English version of the film available, and I will share the details as I get them.

I was privileged to get chance to meet composer Eugénie Rocherolle for lunch at La Quiche in Albuquerque, whilst she was in town for a music educators convention last month. Although we have corresponded over the years, this was the first time we had met face to face. I had a wonderful time, and we even spoke a bit of French (albeit mine was certainly rusty). I look forward to spending time with her again one day.

KC Café Radio (www.kccaferadio.com) chose three of my songs (‘Colours of My Life’, ‘Follow Your Heart’, and ‘Visions of the Past’) as part of a special station promotion in March designed to attract new listeners. They have an amazing range of music from indie artists and I would encourage you to sample some of their programming.

Although my lectures at OASIS have finished for the term, I’m still lecturing around town. On Wednesday, April 28th, from 6-7.30 pm, I will be giving a special presentation for a member event given by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of New Mexico. Entitled “Rock & Roll Renaissance: Pop Artists Writing Classical Music”, this programme will include works by artists who are known to work both sides of the musical field, as well as others who may surprise you. The event is open only to Osher members, but new members can register at the venue.

Maria Vesper wrote to tell me that she sang ‘Follow Your Heart’ for a talent show in March, at West Mesa High School, and that it was well received by the students. Other recent performances of my works include: A Debt of Love by the choirs of Faith Bible Church (March 28th) and Our Lady of the Annunciation (April 2nd), both in Albuquerque; and my period arrangements of Opera Reel and Jenny Lind Polka as performed by the Albuquerque Territorial Brass at a Civil War re-enactment dance in March.

See you next month!

Follow your heart,
Jane

February was an amazingly busy month with so many things happening that I thought it best to wait until March to touch base again.

The official published announcement will be coming out this week in the annual Winter issue of Pan Pipes dedicated to the American Composer, so it is with [...]]]> Dear Friends,

February was an amazingly busy month with so many things happening that I thought it best to wait until March to touch base again.

The official published announcement will be coming out this week in the annual Winter issue of Pan Pipes dedicated to the American Composer, so it is with mixed emotions I announce here that I am standing down as Director of the Sigma Alpha Iota American Composers Bureau. After three years of working as Coordinator of Admissions under then-Director Dr Dorothy Gross, followed by seven years working as Director, ably supported by the wonderful Pan Pipes team, it is time for me to pass the torch. I am blessed and privileged to have been in personal contact with not only some of the most gifted composers in the United States, but more importantly, some of the best human beings – several of whom have become dear friends.

Although this was an incredibly difficult decision to make, I know that it was the right one for me at this time. My leaving would not be complete without expressing my most heartfelt thanks to two dear fraternity sisters, Marcia Williams, who has served as Editor of Pan Pipes for many years, and SAI National Executive Director Ruth Sieber Johnson. Both of these extraordinary women have stood by me offering support and encouragement through some of the darkest and most difficult years of my life. “Thank you” isn’t enough – but sometimes those are the only words we know to say.

On a much happier and certainly less bittersweet note, my trip to San Antonio, TX for the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Convention was absolutely brilliant. Although we have been friends for more years than any of us can remember, this trip marked the first “in person” meeting with renowned composer James Cohn and his wife Eileen. Several of Jim’s pieces were premiered during the Convention, but for me, the highlight had to be when 3500 people attending a concert sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to Jim on his 82nd birthday.

Jim and Eileen introduced me to their friends Guido and Chantal Six, of Oostende, Belgium, who direct (Guido) and perform in (Chantal) the phenomenal clarinet choir Claribel. We hit it off very well, and before the evening was out, I had been asked to write a work for their ensemble. I was also privileged to meet Belgian composer Norbert Goddaer whose works were performed at the convention by Claribel, and clarinetist Raphael “Raph” Sanders from SUNY-Potsdam, who was one of many guest performers with Guido’s group. In addition to attending several phenomenal performances, there was much sight-seeing and some amazing meals, which included a not-too-successful effort to learn Flemish over an Italian dinner, and an attempt to one-up Raph over Mexican food (I was clearly out of my league, but had a great time nevertheless!).

Now that I’m back in Albuquerque, I’d like to remind everyone that the next four-week session of Music Through The Ages begins April 3rd at the New Mexico School of Music, Nob Hill Campus. This four-week class explores different facets of music appreciation and history as presented in a light-hearted but serious manner. Classes are filled with historical illustrations and musical trivia, and amply illustrated by recordings. Due to their intimate nature, discussion will be encouraged if desired. Please contact the NMSM for further information on 505.266.3474, or email me directly.

Recent performances of my works include: ‘Comes a New Day’ on January 12th, by pianist Wilma Gantz, La Vida Llena Music Ministry; and my own performances of ‘Winter Snow’ and ‘Comes a New Day’ (January 3rd), ‘Prayer for Peace’ and ‘In the Bleak Mid-winter’ (February 7th), and ‘Green Hills of Eire’ and ‘Memories of Erin’ (March 7th) all at the Albuquerque Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.

As we enter not only another year, but another decade, I am reminded of how short and precious our time is on this little planet. I hope that none of you has been personally touched by the devastation in Haiti, but I also hope that you will make a contribution – no [...]]]> Dear Friends,

As we enter not only another year, but another decade, I am reminded of how short and precious our time is on this little planet. I hope that none of you has been personally touched by the devastation in Haiti, but I also hope that you will make a contribution – no matter how small – to the on-going relief efforts. ASCAP and other professional arts organisations are collecting funds, as are Oxfam, Unicef, and any number of other groups.

Independent film Lukisan Hati from HS Maju Productions opens in Malaysia this month; the film brings to life the artwork of Anshari Mohd, as it translates his comic to the big screen. Lukisan Hati is a touching story about love and friendship as seen through the eyes of five teenagers. The soundtrack includes two pieces from my album Seasons of the Heart, ‘I Will Find You’ and ‘Promise of Spring’, as well as songs by the group Hyper Act. The film will also be available as an online download; many people expect this to become the norm over the next few years, as technology capabilities increase and the demand for immediate release intensifies. It’s an exciting time to be alive!

As I mentioned last month, I’m greatly anticipating the upcoming courses I’m teaching through the New Mexico School of Music. Entitled Music Through The Ages, these four-week sessions will explore different facets of music appreciation and history. The first session, beginning January 30th, will be an overview of major periods in music history. Presented in a light-hearted but serious manner, these classes will be filled with historical illustrations and musical trivia, amply illustrated by recordings. Due to their intimate nature, discussion will be encouraged if desired. Please contact the NMSM for further information on 505.266.3474, or email me directly.

As the winter term begins at OASIS, I have a new addition to my schedule: I will now be directing Singing the Showtunes. A group of talented amateur vocalists meets weekly throughout the term to share their love of music not only with one another, but with the community at large. I understand that the class still has openings, and if you’re interested, I would encourage you to sign up as quickly as possible. Singing the Showtunes meets for 12 weeks on Tuesday mornings, for ten rehearsals and two performances.

Radio Jockey Vijayan Almeida (who is also a member of the band KIXMET) featured ‘Follow Your Heart’ from my latest CD on the December 17th edition of his radio programme Beat By Beat, which airs on 105.4 FM Rainbow, in Goa, India. Earlier this month, I was privileged to record both a station ident and a short interview, which will be aired at a later date on his show.

Keyboardist Bonnilyn Neyens and vocalist Lillian Pepple Kallina have been using my set of acclamations, Mass of the Faithful, at St. Martha’s Catholic Church, in Wayland, MO. This is especially meaningful to me as my mother was born in the little town of Wayland; she would have been so pleased.

Other recent performances of my works include: ‘Greensleeves’, ‘The Eternal Rose’, and ‘In the Bleak Mid-winter’ on December 15th, by pianist Wilma Gantz, La Vida Llena Music Ministry; and ‘Christmas Legend’ on December 24, by the children of Paradise Hills United Methodist Church, under the direction of Mollie O’Meara, both in Albuquerque, NM.

As the holidays draw near, I wish all of you the happiest of times and hope you can find joy and peace in the season. This issue is later in the month than usual and will be brief, as I was holding back on publication in hopes of having official word on [...]]]> Dear Friends,

As the holidays draw near, I wish all of you the happiest of times and hope you can find joy and peace in the season. This issue is later in the month than usual and will be brief, as I was holding back on publication in hopes of having official word on a couple of projects to share with you. The January 2010 issue is just around the corner and will have even more news.

My new CD Following My Heart has made its debut on Amazon.com with two five-star reviews, and is selling both in its entirety and as individual tracks in Canada, the UK, Europe, Israel, and the Philippines. Much to my surprise, the breakout single has not been ‘Raindance’, but the second track, ‘Keeper of My Heart’. Be sure to stop by and support KC Café Internet Radio which is dedicated to bringing you the finest in original music from around the world. Currently the station is playing tracks from both the new album and my seasonal album Flowers in Winter. As always, you can order copies of my CDs directly through me, or by accessing the links to your favourite retailers via my website.

I’m very excited about the upcoming courses that I will be teaching through the New Mexico School of Music. Entitled Music Through The Ages, these classes will be intimate, four-week sessions exploring different facets of music appreciation and history. The first session, which begins January 30th, 2010, will be an overview of major periods in music history. These light-hearted but serious classes will be filled with historical illustrations and musical trivia, amply illustrated by recordings. Due to their intimate nature, discussion will be encouraged if desired. Please contact the NMSM for further information on 505.266.3474, or email me directly.

In other news, violinist Wesley Yu and pianist Amelia Leung premiered Away in a Manger, December 19th, in El Paso, TX. The work is the result of a collaborative arrangement by composer/violinist Hanson Yu and me, which blends two different traditional melodies of this classic Christmas carol. And last, but not least, the new independent film Lukisan Hati, which opens in Malaysia on January 15, 2010, will be using some of my music in the soundtrack. Hopefully there will be more news on that front in January.