At Every Turn is a collection of ten original piano solos by Suzanne Herman. The music was inspired by a trip to Antarctica Suzanne took a few years ago and describes the scenery and wildlife as well as feelings about what she experienced while there. Quoting the composer: “Only music, not words, can describe this marvelous and astounding panorama!” And describe it, the music does - very vividly and colorfully! Several singles have been released ahead of the full album, but even if you have those, the full album gives a much more complete musical experience. Sheet music for each piece and a complete solo piano songbook are also available.

At Every Turn begins with “Where Oceans Meet,” a piece inspired by The Drake Passage, a body of water from South America’s Cape Horn to the continent of Antarctica. The Atlantic, Pacific and Southern Oceans all converge there, presenting a very challenging voyage. The piece itself is very peaceful and dreamy, reflecting on the feelings Suzanne experienced while leaving civilization behind. The very expressive “A Christmas Sky” reflects on the un-darkened night sky and the stars that appeared there despite the light - again, very peaceful and serene. “First Glance” beautifully describes the feelings experienced with the first sighting of Antarctica - “one of those rare moments of wonder, awe, and grandeur.” “Clear a Path” is much livelier and somewhat darker, and was inspired by the experience of dodging icebergs in the water before stepping onto the mainland. “A Graceful Splash” is one of my favorites and describes the slow and relaxed movements of the whales as they broke through the water’s surface. Suzanne describes the penguins they saw as “both elegant and playful. They waddled one by one across the ice and snow.” The light and carefree “Penguin Parade” was inspired by those scenes. “Sojourn” describes a musical pilgrimage to a land of ice and mystery and the unforgettable experiences while there - also a favorite. “Like No Other” expresses feelings of wonder and appreciation for a life-changing experience. Suzanne’s trip to Antarctica was in the summer for that area, and it never really gets dark during those months. “No Darkness” is a musical expression of that experience. Parts of the piece are played in the upper notes of the piano keyboard, making me think of light dancing on the glistening snow-covered environment. In her liner notes, Suzanne explains her thoughts behind “An Inspired Silence,” the last piece on the album: “I will forever cherish the experience of kayaking while in Antarctica! Viewing unusual birds, penguins, icebergs, shipwrecks, and the amazing surroundings was only some of what I experienced. One of the most notable aspects of this extraordinary excursion was the silence. True silence. It was wonderfully serene.”

At Every Turn is another excellent album from Suzanne Herman and is available from her website as well as on Amazon and Apple Music/iTunes and many streaming platforms including Spotify and Pandora. Both thumbs up!