There are moments in our lives when words simply cannot define the experience. Our lives to a large extent are defined by those moments. To capture them and to hold them for the rest of the world to see without breathing a word is nothing short of a miracle. Like our lives themselves, the wonder of our defining moments shine brightly like light dancing through a prism.
Contemporary instrumentalist Dana Cunningham creates magnetic moods defining certain instants so achingly and unapologetically stunning, one must stop to hear what comes next. Cinematic and breathtaking, the grace in Dana’s music is very much a catalyst for the listener being in touch with an undefined quietude which allows us to examine memories and emotions that evade us in our daily lives. Dana’s music is a channel through which we may come in touch with who we truly are.
“The Color of Light†is a gorgeous collection of original pieces and improvisations that create a setting for contemplation and presence. Deeply emotional and full of grace, Cunningham’s music exudes warmth and calm. The more you listen to it, the more the depth of the music reveals itself, providing a refuge for the spirit and mind.â€
Kathy Parsons, Solo Piano Publications
“There is a directness of purpose and communication in Cunningham’s technique that makes this recording a delight. With a beautiful way with phrasing and lingering chord resonances, she gets to the heart of her compositions to create soulful moments rich in feeling and contemplation.â€
Nelson Brill, Stereo Review
“..simply the most impressive work of composition and performance I have heard from a pianist in twenty years. That the music connects on such a deep emotional level and is so accessible only makes it more remarkable."
Will Ackerman, Producer
The breathtaking shades of sound and silence are radiant in “The Color of Light,†by solo pianist Dana Cunningham .The volume of 15 tracks is being released on Fountain Creek Music based in New Hampshire. Her latest release drew high praise from legendary producer, Will Ackerman, who oversaw the project. He writes, “Dana is a brilliant player. Whatever she plays is invested with emotion…hers is music that communicates.â€
Liberating colors, textures, lines, and space take shape as remarkably as any natural vista or visual work of art. Dana draws deep inspiration from nature as an antidote to hurried and inattentive contemporary life. Much like the poet, Mary Oliver, Dana’s music depicts an intimate experience through her reflection of nature’s grace, eschewing excessive trappings society says will make us whole. The poetry of Rilke and Rumi, as well as the music of Ennio Morricone, and Arvo Part add influential substance to Dana’s deep understanding of the human experience.
A coterie of contributing artists including Ugandan-born vocalist, Samite, and Grammy Award-winning cellist, Eugene Friesen lend nuance, levity, and depth to Dana’s repertoire. Marcia Myers, the United States’ preeminent fresco painter from New Mexico graciously lent her stunning work titled, SCAVI CLXXXIV, for the cover art.