The Spirit of Montana is the fourth solo piano album by Tim Glemser and tells the story of a special part of his childhood. Composing music that portrays the spirit and history of Montana has been Glemser’s goal for a long time, and he has succeeded well. He says in the liner notes: “Like the meadowlark that flies over the land, I want this album to take you on a musical journey - through wilderness, plains, valleys, snowstorms, open skies, and campfires under the stars. This is the spirit of Montana.” When I visited Montana several years ago, I remember being mesmerized by the beauty and majesty of the place. Glemser’s music triggers so many memories of that trip, making me want to go back and experience Big Sky Country again!

The fifteen original piano solos are graceful, melodic, and a bit nostalgic. The music was recorded on a Shigeru Kawai SK-7 grand piano at Joe Bongiorno’s Piano Haven Studio in Sedona, AZ. As always, the piano sound is excellent - warm, mellow, and clear. I have thoroughly enjoyed all of Tim Glemser’s recordings so far, and this one is also excellent.

The Spirit of Montana begins with the title track, a beautiful piece that expresses longing and openness with a powerful emotional depth. “Big Sky Country” is expansive and very peaceful. In “Untamed,” Glemser uses the damper pedal to create an echoing effect that suggests vast open space. As the piece develops, it becomes passionate and more dramatic - a favorite! I also really like the very expressive “Cheyenne” and the poignant “Smoke and Stars.” “Indian Summer” is warm and languid while “The Stones of Blodgett Creek” is lively, playful and sparkling. “Through Wind and Ice” is another favorite. Spirited and energetic, the upper treble notes have a chilly crystalline edge in places while other passages express the swirling movements of the wind. “Solstice Snow” is a haunting piece that captures the stillness and silent beauty of newly-fallen snow - gorgeous! “Trails of the Past” takes a nostalgic look back. Reflective and a little bit wistful, it tells a personal story without any need for words, bringing the album to a quiet and peaceful close.

If you are new to Tim Glemser’s music, The Spirit of Montana is a great place to start. Fans of his earlier albums will love this one, too! It is available from timglemser.com, Amazon, iTunes, and CD Baby. Highly recommended!