The Story Garden is the follow-up to Thomas Cunningham’s 1998 release, The Exiled Heart. The twelve original piano solos are varied in style and approach - some quiet and gentle while others are bigger, bolder, and occasionally discordant to add some spice to the mix. Most of the themes involve family and other loved ones, so the music is personal and heartfelt without becoming overly sentimental. A self-taught pianist, Cunningham has impressive playing chops that express his stories well. Quite a bit of the music sounds somewhat improvised, making the “stories” fresh and new.

The Story Garden opens with “Autumn,” a colorful piece that conveys the many changing moods of the fall. Sudden bursts of energy are followed with flowing rubato lines that are tinged with a feeling of mystery. Many themes are woven together to create a fascinating portrait of the season. “Nanette” is a graceful musical depiction of the composer’s wife that again expresses a variety of moods from gentle to quite turbulent - “Nanette” is no shrinking violet! “Clay Moon” is full of playful innocence and could be a sweet lullaby for a little one. Sections have a music box quality that is light and carefree. “Summer Pond” is peaceful with a gentle sparkle that suggests light dancing on water. Ponds tend to be full of life during the summer, and some of the more energetic themes suggest this - a very evocative piece. One of my favorites is “It’s A Boy.” Buoyant and spilling over with joy, it’s a delight for the ears. I also really like “Somewhere Within,” which is reflective and a bit darker, moving along on a changing rhythmic pattern. “And When She Smiles” is a more structured love song - passionate yet tender. The closing track, “Red Pony,” returns to childlike innocence and wonder - a lovely finish to a fascinating musical journey.

The Story Garden is available from amazon.com and spiritrainmusic.com. Recommended for those who enjoy solo piano with some complexity, not just simple “pretty” melodies to fall asleep to.