Into the Light is a six-track solo piano EP by Michael Strening, Jr., a lifelong composer who creates neo-classical piano music for relaxation, stress-relief, meditation and healing. No stranger to the healing power of music, Strening himself has experienced injuries that threatened his musical career. He did extensive work with a licensed massage therapist who helped him to heal and continue on his life's path. In gratitude for this and many of the other beautiful things in life, Strening has dedicated his career to writing music specifically to help others relax, reduce stress and heal. He seeks to remind us through his music to see hope, truth and light in the world - no matter where we are or what we are facing. Five of the six tracks on the EP have been released as singles, and the sixth one, "Floating," will be released in conjunction with the EP (October 4, 2024).

Into the Light begins with the title track, a beautiful piece with a simple, heartfelt melody supported by a lively left hand rhythm. The overall effect is thoughtful and poignant, but that underlying energy very effectively moves it forward - a great start! "Windswept" also has a lively left hand supporting a simpler yet very emotive melody. With less than a minute left in the piece, it starts to slow, changing to a series of quiet chords and trailing off at the end. "Lift In Air" makes me think of a soft spring breeze that gently ruffles the leaves and blossoms of plants and trees as they come back to life after a long winter. "Fly Away" is possibly the most energetic of the tracks, but the hypnotic motion of the left hand keeps the music relaxed and peaceful. The 3/4 rhythm of "Cloud Waltz" is steady and predictable, but the right hand dances freely, much like the graceful movement of fluffy white clouds "waltzing" across a bright blue sky. The closing track is "Floating." Like its title implies, the piece is very free-form, meandering around the piano keyboard while suggesting the movement of floating on a cloud or on a lazy river - no rush, no final destination planned, just the freedom to relax and enjoy.

Into the Light EP is the first of Michael Strening, Jr.'s music that I've heard, and I'm really looking forward to hearing more o fit! The EP is available from Amazon, Apple/iTunes, Pandora, Spotify and other streaming services.