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Album Review: From the Heart EP
Carol Comune
Cover image of the album From the Heart EP by Carol Comune
From the Heart EP
Carol Comune
2019 / Double J Music
13 minutes
Review by Kathy Parsons
From the Heart is an EP of three piano solos composed and performed by Carol Comune. All three pieces are lyrical and deeply emotional and the three work together seamlessly on this recording. I have reviewed quite a few of Carol's albums, and this one is (so far) my favorite. I love the openness of the music as well as the expressiveness of Carol's playing. Attracted to the piano at the early age of 3, she continues to be captivated by the piano’s sounds and touch as well as the ability to express an endless array of emotions with one instrument. A Steinway Artist, Carol received The Steinway Top Teacher Award in 2016 and 2017. She is on the faculty of Westminster Conservatory and has maintained private piano studios since 1973.

From the Heart begins with "Ritorno." The title is the Italian word for "return," and the piece overflows with sadness and longing. Written in the key of D minor, the left hand is mostly a simple pattern while the right hand plays the haunting and very emotional melody. I really love this piece! (Sheet music is available from Carol's website!)

"Longing" is also deeply emotional and reflective. It could be about a very painful loss, an unreachable dream, a missed opportunity, or any number of things that can cause a profound feeling of emptiness. Composed in the key of Bb minor, the music is graceful and full of meaning. (Sheet music is available for this one, too!)

"Dusk" is somewhat lighter in mood than the first two pieces, but is still very introspective and pensive. Peaceful and dreamy, it beautifully expresses the calm just before the sun sets and the stars do their nightly dance.

From the Heart is available from www.CarolComune.com, Amazon, Apple/iTunes and streaming sites such as Spotify. Very highly recommended!
June 28, 2021
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