Customer Reviews

Christmas at the Movies

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
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I recently purchased the CD "Christmas At The Movies" by pianist Michael Chertock for the simple reason that it contained one of the few existing piano arrangements of Howard Blake's "Walking In The Air" from the cartoon "The Snowman." When I got over my obsession with this cut and finally listened to the rest of the disc, and I was astounded at the brilliant, creative, and sensitive arrangements of some of these all-too-commonly heard Christmas classics. Chertock's arrangements seem at times to sound as if he is actually channeling the spirits of Debussy, or Ravel, or even Samuel Barber (Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer) as he weaves his beautiful tone paintings on the piano. Carol Of the Bells is the first track on the CD. Just as he does in each selection, Chertock takes us through a myriad of different emotions. It's been such a long time since I've been moved to tears by someone's playing. When someone like Michael Chertock can make me fall in love with even my most hated Christmas carol from childhood (Silent Night), they are on the verge of sainthood! What is Christmas to me? Mysterious, magical, funny, reflective, even dark....This disc is all that, and more! Probably the best Christmas piano recording available! Get it before its out of print! You'll find yourself listening for many a Christmas to come.

This is the first CD of Michael Chertock's that I've listened to. It quickly became my favorite Christmas CD! The music was very relaxing. I often played it when I was paying bills or doing other paperwork. The compilation was enjoyable because he played some traditional carols and some other whimsical pieces like "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch", which is probably my favorite. If you enjoy piano and Christmas music, I think you'll become a fan of this CD and Michael Chertock.

Like a previous reviewer, I bought this for the hauntingly beautiful "Walking in the Air," written by Howard Blake for The Snowman, and have gotten SO very much more! The songs, all solo piano, are wonderfully and wittily arranged, and Michael Chertock plays them with astounding ability and emotion. It is impossible to listen to "You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch" and not smile, nor to listen to "You.. You/Once Upon a December" (Scrooge/Anastasia) without a lump in the throat - and how often can you find these gems written for movies along with traditional favorites? The choice of pieces, and the way Mr. Chertock combines, them is genius! I adore GOOD holiday music of all types and this is one of my very top favorites, a "can't wait to play/last to put away" (which is why my CD is already getting worn out). This will appeal to EVERYONE on your Christmas list. Truly a treasure!! Do yourself a favor and treat yourself to this unique holiday treat - then spread the word!

I bought Christmas at the Movies this year, and I love Michael Chertock's piano music. He's an amazing performer. His arrangements are whimsical and intricate. The CD includes beloved classics like "Carol of the Bells" from The Santa Clause and "Christmastime is Here" from A Charlie Brown Christmas, as well as lesser-known (to me) works, like "Somewhere in My Memory" from Home Alone and "Sally's Song" from The Nightmare Before Christmas. My favorite tracks are "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear"/"What Child Is This?" and "Silent Night"/"Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus." The CD is full of heart, wonder, and Christmas spirit. Today I was feeling stressed out and this CD pulled me right out of my blues. Can't recommend it highly enough!!

This is easily my favorite Christmas cd. I bought it because I love the piano music by Michael Chertock. It did not disappoint me. All instrumental and beautifully played. I greatly enjoyed each version of the songs selected. My whole family loves it. I wish Chertock would make some more cds. I bought this in 2008 and now in 2009 it is still my favorite Christmas cd. I can't believe more people haven't found this cd and aren't reviewing it. Chertock's versions of these songs are addicting. My favorites are A Charlie Brown Christmas, Home Alone, Prancer, The Snowman and Scrooge/Anastasia.

I did not realize that this collection was not a collection of the actual performers. But .. it was actually quite good for what i call 'canned music.'