Personnel: Richard Shulman (piano); Shamora P. Pate Duffie (soprano); Donna Beck Michael (alto); Lee Thomas, Forrest Green, Dave Hoffman, Mark Small (tenor); Bill Melanson (baritone); Edward Noble Scott, Di Diego, Bob, Jack Hall (bass voice); Niamh Tuohy Clarke, Debra L. Anthony, Mary Byrd Daniels, Ralph Congdon, Melissa P. Alderman (violin); Kay Gilbert, Jan Daugherty (viola); Frances B. Duff (cello); Barbra Duvall Baker (flute, piccolo); Yuki K. Harding (oboe); Rod J. Gornto (bassoon); T. Mark Clodfelter (trumpet); Tom English , Rex Gallatin, Mitzi Hall (horns).
New Age Retailer once pegged composer and pianist Richard Shulman as "the quintessential New Age musician," and his ideals behind this ambitious project -- about following dreams to create a more beautiful world -- definitely live up to that billing. The dramatic piano, orchestra, and vocal extravaganza was recorded live in concert in January 2002 and in a closed session later that month in Asheville, NC, performed by a 35-piece orchestra and a 20-member choir, conducted by Robert Hart Baker. But the vision is all Shulman's, and the booming, melodic movements here possess a touch of the ancient spirit of Camelot. In that ancient time, they came close to creating a successful society-love base, divinely connected and harmonious with nature. Those notions translate here to a rich landscape which sets a course ("The Dream"), then goes through various mood swings in order to fulfill it ("A Celebration," "Releasing the Past/Healing"). The production is impressive, but some of the most appealing moments are created by Shulman's thoughtful solo piano style. ~ Jonathan Widran
