Kaleidoscope of Life began as a series of “musical toys,” which were vignettes pianist/composer Yelena Eckemoff improvised to relax from her more “serious” work. As the collection of “toys” grew, she realized that she was creating kind of a diary of her family life. Over time, she also collected sound effects from family videos as well as photos that reflected what the music was about, intending to keep it as a personal memento for her family. She later realized that the music was something that most people could relate to, either with their own families or their early lives, and released the collection on her own label. Born, raised, and educated in Moscow, Eckemoff earned a Masters Degree from the Moscow Conservatory. She and her husband came to the US in 1991, leaving their three small sons with their grandmother while they established a life here. The family was reunited fourteen months later, and “Happy Moments” captures the joyful reunion. Along with the piano, Eckemoff added other instrumentation, so this is not one of her solo piano recordings. As in life, the textures and colors keep changing, making this a very interesting and enjoyable album as well as a personal memoir. Some of the talking on the album is Russian, since the children spoke Russian at the time. Ms. Eckemoff is very open about translating, but it would be fun if the translations were in the liner notes or on her website, allowing those of us who don’t understand Russian to know what is happening. The giggles and laughter are universal! The music has strong classical roots, but jazz and contemporary influences are apparent. The CD cover calls it “entertaining music,” and I think that’s very accurate.

The CD opens with one of the boys asking in Russian, “Is there going to be music?” His mom asks “What music?” Anthony then says, “But mu-usic! ... I am just going to stay right here.” The music begins with “Morning Hopes,” a very beautiful Russian-sounding waltz. “A Lazy Hour” is a very light, relaxed bit of musical bliss. “Halloween” has the sounds of thunder, goblins, and other spooky stuff but maintains a sense of fun and mystery in the music. “Play Time” is completely carefree with childlike innocence. “Kaleidoscope” is a bit more abstract, dancing and swirling with a colorful energy. “In a Blue Mood” slows down the pace and creates a quiet, reflective feeling with twinges of melancholy. My favorite track is the aforementioned “Happy Moments,” which is in a ragtime style. Rhythmic and euphoric, this is joy set to music. “Grandma Olga’s Waltz” is downright funny. Beginning with what sounds like a piano lesson that segues into a sweet little waltz, the sound of light snoring in the background cracks me up. “Christmas Tree” includes the sound of someone practicing “Jingle Bells” on cello. The actual piece is a lovely waltz that sparkles and enchants. “Do It My Way” is another favorite - graceful and a bit more serious, it could be a musical depiction of a parent patiently explaining something to a child. “Late Hour” concludes the album with more of a dark smooth jazz piece that’s just this side of slinky.

Kaleidoscope is a unique and enjoyable musical experience. It is one woman’s expression of family life that is both deeply personal and universal - and also a lot of fun. It is available from www.yelenamusic.com and amazon.com.