A Grand Memoir is something of a soundtrack for Darlene Koldenhoven’s autobiography/memoir, Put Your Dress Down and Sing (published by Sibylline Press and releasing on August 7, 2026). The music from the album will actually be featured in the audio-book version of the memoir, but the ten heartfelt piano solos are just too good to keep in the background! It is very interesting to note that all of the pieces on the album came to Darlene in “awakening dreams” during the period when she was writing her book. She recorded the album live in her living room on a 100-year-old Steinway Model L piano and, like her writing, the music expresses a wide range of powerful experiences and emotions. Both the book and the recording are already winning awards even though they haven’t yet been released, so expect to be impressed!

While Darlene has been known primarily as a Grammy-winning vocalist and producer, A Grand Memoir is her third solo piano album and her fourteenth album on her TimeArt® Recordings label. The album begins with “Love and Devotion,” a heartfelt piece that overflows with grace and tenderness. “Impressions” is a favorite and clearly demonstrates just how agile Darlene’s fingers are on the piano keys. There are many mood changes in this piece, but they flow effortlessly from one to the next while expressing a variety of “impressions.” “Lilac Tears” goes much deeper, expressing vulnerability as well as sadness. I can’t wait for the sheet music for this one! “Wright’s Romanza” is an improvisation inspired by a visit to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House in Los Angeles. Wright called the architectural style of the house “California Romanza” for its free-form style (see the music video on YouTube!). Flowing and impressionistic, it’s a beautiful tribute! “Caprice” moves gracefully with just a touch of mystery - also a favorite! “Jacaranda Joy” is named for a tree with bright purple flowers. The easy tempo suggests the gentle movement of those flowers in a spring breeze - beautiful and very soothing! The light and bittersweet, “Le Petit Carrousel” touches the heart as it suggests images of pastel colors and tiny merry-go-round riders. I love “Winter in Vienna,” a slow minor-key waltz that tugs at the heartstrings while suggesting scenes of bitter cold and ice. “Gentle Song” is just that - freely expressive and overflowing with tenderness. “Flying With Kites” brings the album to a carefree close, expressing the freedom of the kites, the joy of the people flying them, and the colorful images of the kites dancing gracefully on a clear blue sky.

A Grand Memoir will be released on August 7, 2026 and can be pre-ordered now from Amazon and Bandcamp (including CDs). Darlene’s book, Put Your Dress Down and Sing, will also be released on August 7th and is also available to pre-order. More links will be added as they become available. Very highly recommended!