SnowLight (A Christmas Memory) is the second solo piano release from Idaho pianist/composer Lynn Tredeau. The fourteen tracks include Tredeau’s arrangements of ten traditional Christmas carols and four originals. All fourteen pieces are peaceful and reflective, evoking images of the quiet tranquility of fresh snow sparkling in the sun (or moon). The music also expresses the warm feelings that permeate holidays that are spent with loved ones as well as the shared memories that bond families and dear friends together. The traditional carols are well-chosen and while the arrangements are original, the songs are all very recognizable and not “too” different from how most people expect to hear them. There is nothing flashy about her interpretations - they are beautiful, graceful, and very gentle. The four original compositions continue in this elegant style, and I think they are the highlights of the album.

SnowLight begins with the title track, one of the originals. It paints a picture of a Christmas tree decorated with plain white lights - a beloved symbol of the season. Much of the piece is played in the upper octaves of the piano, creating a sparkling effect. “Angels We Have Heard On High” is played a little slower than you usually hear it, giving it a delicate and peaceful feeling. “Ukranian Carol” (aka “Carol of the Bells”) can be one of the more energetic and powerful Christmas carols, but Tredeau has chosen to make her arrangement more peaceful, subdued, and even a bit haunting. “Jolly Old Saint Nicholas” is the only “Santa” song on the album, but it fits in perfectly, expressing the wishes and hopes of a child. “Colors of a Winter Night” is the second original composition, another beauty. Light and delicate, the bittersweet melody is both wistful and dreamy - a favorite! “A Child’s Christmas Prayer” reflects on the fact that there are things a child wants for Christmas that Santa cannot bring - requests that can only be made through prayer. The simple melody and heartfelt expression convey the hopes and dreams of innocence. “Coventry Carol” is one of my favorite carols. I love the haunting quality it has, and Tredeau has captured it elegantly and effectively. “Pines Dressed in Winter” is one of the most popular pieces from Tredeau’s earlier release, Echoes of Life, and it fits perfectly on this album as well. “Holly and the Ivy” is another favorite of mine, and Tredeau keeps the simple melody uncluttered yet expressive and sweetly innocent. Other titles include “Silent Night,” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear,” “We Three Kings,” and “O Holy Night.”

If you are looking for a new solo piano Christmas album this year, SnowLight could be just what you’re looking for! It is available from LynnTredeau.com, Amazon, iTunes, and CD Baby.