Since I am on vacation this week, I decided to write a post on the music I listen to while working and relaxing. My family and I are vacationing at Black Butte Ranch in Central Oregon. The beauty of the scenery inspired me to write about my most loved subject.
Music has been a critical part of my life and has helped me through many challenging times. I believe everyone can benefit from soothing music throughout their lives. Listening to music can be a simple form of meditation. So sit back, put some headphones on, and try out some of my favorite artists and tunes:
Robin Spielberg
Robin Spielberg is at the top of my list for a reason. I love the feeling and flow of her music. She writes very soothing pieces as well as fast, spunky tunes.
I recommend “On the Edge of a Dream” available through the following link:
https://robinspielberg.com/store/on-the-edge-of-a-dream-audio-cd
I may also suggest “An Improvisation on Canon in D” from her “Dreaming of Summer” LP.
Cathy and I used this tune as she walked down the aisle at our wedding. This song has a special meaning for us.
If you haven’t listened to Robin, I strongly suggest doing so. Her website is listed below:
Kevin Kern
Kevin Kern was born legally blind and began playing the piano at the age of 18 months. You will not be disappointed with Kevin’s music. He has solo piano pieces as well as piano, guitar and string arrangements.
I haven’t listened to anything from this composer that I didn’t enjoy. My favorite CD by Kevin is Endless Blue Sky from 2009.
Bernward Koch
Bernward Koch is a German composer who plays a variety of instruments. I stumbled upon Bernward while working as a telepharmacist very early one morning. He has since turned into one of my go-to artists for relaxation and meditation.
It is hard for me to pick a single CD from this guy, but I would probably go with “Remembering” from 2015 if I had to choose. I am confident you will love his music.
Secret Garden
Secret Garden is a little different from the other artists on this list. They are a bit more diverse but outstanding musicians. I am not going to try to pick one CD from them to recommend. I suggest you listen to all of their music. They can certainly put you in a pleasant, relaxing mood very quickly. Do yourself a favor and go to the web site below and read about them. I promise you will be glad you did!
Michael Allen Harrison
Last but certainly not least is Michael Allen Harrison. I have had the pleasure of watching this guy play more times than I can count. He is from Portland, Oregon, where I grew up.
He can play solo or perform with a full jazz band. He performs Christmas concerts every year with singers and other musicians at “The Old Church” in Portland. If you have a chance to see this show, GO!
Michael teaches children how to play the piano and allows them to show off before his concerts. Some of his students are truly amazing.
Whenever I need inspiration, I try to see him live. I do have a favorite song from Michael, which is “February’s Child”. This song is on the “Bedtime Lullabies” CD which I strongly recommend.
The purpose of my blog is to help my readers live a happy, healthy, healing life. This post gives you a look into one of my most treasured tools for relaxation.
Music has been one of the most important aspects of my life. Although I do enjoy multiple genres of music, as I get older, I find myself listening to the artists I have discussed above more often.
I have enjoyed sharing this part of my life with you. Remember to take some time each day to do whatever it is that makes you happy. We can all achieve happiness if we do a little planning.
Comments on my posts are always appreciated!
Michael J. Brown, RPh. BCPS, BCPP
Mr. Brown is a Clinical Pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy and psychiatry.
Read Michael’s story here. Feel free to send Michael a message using this link
Thanks Michael,
I think apps like Pandora are a blessing to us. As I walk to my commute in the morning, or home from the commute in the evenings, I’ll listen to my personal playlist. The neighbors can hear me, if their televisions are off and if their windows are open, singing along.
Just checking how many tunes are on that list today: 6,388.