Sacred Balance is the tenth album (plus some compilations) from pianist/composer Dan Chadburn, an artist I’ve been very happily reviewing since his 1998 debut album simply titled Solo Piano. Dan performed many times in my house concert series and became a favorite of his local audience here on the Oregon Coast. His live performances are always inspiring and often include one or more improvisations created on the spot. A native Oregonian himself, Dan has a very strong classical background and is an amazing improviser! The fourteen tracks on Sacred Balance are a mix of solo piano and piano with cello, and all fourteen are soulful and deeply emotional. Rather than trying to paraphrase, this is the description of the album that Dan sent me:

Sacred Balance is dedicated to the memory of Mark Alan Smith, an extraordinary artist and cherished friend who faced his battle with cancer with courage and grace. This album is offered in his honor with the hope that its music encourages listeners to pause, breathe, and witness the vibrant beauty that surrounds us, even when the world feels chaotic or turned upside down.

Originally composed as a series of pieces for solo piano, the subsequent addition of cello melodies deepens the expressive connection, evoking the quiet strength and sacred calm residing within each of us, even in the presence of life’s turbulent storms. May the music serve both as a remembrance and a reminder that stillness, beauty, and balance are always within reach…

Sacred Balance begins with the title track, a heartfelt piano solo for the first half of the piece, and a gracefully-flowing piano and cello duet for the second half - an impressive beginning! The soulful duet, “Blessed Be,” feels both soothing and reassuring - a favorite! “Descending to Heaven” overflows with emotion, and is perhaps Dan’s way of sharing memories of his friend, Mark, via his music. I really love this one! “Beyond Imagination” is a piano solo and could be an improvisation as it seems to be evolving as it unfolds - heartfelt, graceful and very beautiful! “Four Months” returns to the duet format, and feels very poignant and bittersweet. “Cosmic Resonance” is a little different in that in addition to the piano and cello, some “spacey” electronic effects give the piece a different feeling that’s mysterious, open and yet very peaceful. “Walking Each Other Home” expresses the warmth and contentment of a happy shared experience. “One Day Soon” offers a gentle message of hope and optimism - another favorite. In addition to the piano, “Waiting” makes use of electronic effects and reverb to create a shimmering, ambient piece that feels very mysterious and atmospheric. “The Long Goodbye” is heartbreaking while it expresses deep love and sadness. Both the piano and cello are especially poignant on this one! I’m not sure what “Thirteen” refers to, but it doesn’t matter because the piece is so heartfelt and graceful as it offers comfort and peace. The closing track, “Lost and Found,” feels very hopeful and encouraging as it overflows with love and support.

Dan Chadburn has created another masterpiece with Sacred Balance. It is available to stream or download from Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes as well as many streaming services including Spotify and Pandora. Sheet music and songbooks for the album will be coming soon and will include the cello parts as well as the piano. Don’t miss this one!