A Crimson and Starlit Christmas is a peaceful and very expressive solo piano Christmas album by Joshua Zimmerman, a pianist/composer/piano teacher from Grand Rapids, Michigan. The ten pieces are all very well-known traditional Christmas carols of a more spiritual nature - no Santa songs or rockin’ around a tree. Instead, the album is graced with heartfelt arrangements that enhance the beauty of the original carols while encouraging reflection and peace. Even the cover artwork is exceptional with a watercolor painting by Colombian artist, Camila Rodriguez. The album was recorded at Joe Bongiorno’s Piano Haven Studio on his incredible Kawai Shigeru concert grand piano, and the sound quality is flawless.

The album begins with “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear,” reflecting on the stillness of the night when Jesus was born. There are some original interludes between the verses that add much to the expressive quality of the arrangement. Simple and from the heart, it’s a wonderful start! “O Little Town of Bethlehem” begins a little slower than usual, focusing on the melody and gradually building intensity and ending much the way it began. “What Child Is This?” is always one of my favorites, and I love Josh’s arrangement as well as his original additions to the song. There are at least forty melodies that go with the lyrics to “Away In a Manger,” but Josh chose the melody I grew up with and have always loved. Gentle and innocent, this one really touches my heart and brings back many memories. “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” is another favorite with its dark minor key melody and adaptability to a very wide variety of interpretations and musical styles. Josh’s arrangement is slow and introspective, really focusing on the melody, but it also has a few interludes between verses that range from bold and passionate to much more delicate. If I had to choose one favorite on this album, this would be it! “Angels We Have Heard On High” flows gracefully with original segments between verses that come from the heart. Josh’s arrangement of “We Three Kings” expresses a joy you don’t always hear in this minor-key carol. It’s not giddy by any means, but more optimistic and hopeful - an exceptional interpretation! “Joy To the World” moves all over the piano keyboard with the various verses, staying bright and joyous with each change of position. “O Holy Night” is another favorite, and Josh’s arrangement and playing are exceptionally heartfelt and expressive. The album comes to a very calm and peaceful close with “Silent Night.” Once again, Josh keeps his arrangement simple and from the heart with gentle interludes between the verses, focusing on the meaning of the song without needing lyrics to get the point across.

A Crimson and Starlit Christmas is sure to calm and brighten anyone’s holiday season! It is available to stream and download from Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes as well as many streaming services including Spotify and YouTube. Very highly recommended!