Once Upon a Time is a new collection of twelve timeless songs and standards arranged and performed by Robin Spielberg, an artist I’ve been following (and enjoying immensely!) since the mid-1990s. The songs originated from a variety of different sources, but Robin focuses on the melodies and expressive elements in the music, making the songs her own while honoring their legacy. A Steinway Artist, Robin recorded the album at Cedarhouse Sound & Mastering in New Hampshire.

Once Upon a Time begins with “Around the World” from the 1956 film, Around the World in 80 Days. A playful and wistful waltz, Robin’s arrangement is both nostalgic and dreamy. “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off” was composed by George and Ira Gershwin in 1937 and became a standard over the years. Robin focuses on the melody, giving it her own special touches. “Choucoune (Yellow Bird)” originated in Haiti in about 1893 and was first released in the US in 1957 by the Norman Luboff Choir, followed by Lawrence Welk and his Orchestra's big hit. Robin gives “My Romance” by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart (1935) an exceptionally heartfelt arrangement and performance. Barbra Streisand’s version of the song, “People,” became one one of her biggest hits. Composed by Jule Styne with lyrics by Bob Merrill for the 1964 Broadway musical Funny Girl (which starred Streisand), the single was also released in 1964. Robin’s arrangement begins quietly, gradually building passion and expression - a great arrangement! “Who Will Buy?” comes from the 1968 musical, Oliver, and is one of the more dramatic tracks on the album - definitely a favorite! “MacArthur Park” by Jimmy Webb is a special treat for me, as Richard Harris’ recording was one of my favorite songs of the late 1960’s. Robin gives the poignant melody her special touches and makes it soar in all the right places - another favorite! I don’t think the song, “Unforgettable,” has ever gone out of popularity in the past seventy-five years, and Robin really gives it her all with heavy accents here and there in the deep bass of the piano and lightly dancing runs up and down the keyboard. I am shocked to learn that the melody for Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” originated as “Plaisir d’amour” in 1784!!! Robin’s arrangement is tender and magical - a beautiful performance! “Over the Rainbow” is another classic that never goes out of favor and Robin plays it from the depths of her heart. The title track (“Once Upon a Time”) is the only song on the album I wasn’t familiar with. It was written by Charles Strouse and Lee Adams in 1962 for the musical All American. A heartfelt ballad, Robin gives it her all. The album comes to a sweet close with “Love Is All Around,” a tender ballad perfectly suited to Robin’s graceful touch on the piano keyboard.

Once Upon a Time will be released on November 20, 2026 (Robin Spielberg’s birthday!) and is available to pre-order now on CD and digital download on Amazon and as a download on Apple Music/iTunes. More links will be added as they become available. Don’t miss this one!