Customer Reviews

Timeless

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

"Timeless" is an exquisite collection of classical pieces, faithful to the originals and embellished a bit to update them. Purists might sniff that these pieces could never be improved upon, but the composers of these works were innovators in their own times, and I think they are probably smiling down on Michael Dulin for the loving touches he has added. A pianist/composer who completed his classical training at Juilliard and has had a lifelong career in music, Dulin is impeccable as a soloist and almost reverent with his various instrumental shadings. His piano is a wonderful Steinway grand.

I really like Dulin's selection of music for this recording. Several of the pieces are performed as composed, demonstrating his magnificent artistry as a soloist. Those include "Moonlight" (Debussy's "Clair de Lune"), "Love's Dream" ("Liebestraum" by Lizst), and Chopin's "Waltz in C-sharp Minor," all played to technical and emotional perfection. The CD opens with "Simply Satie," which is based on Erik Satie's "Gymnopedie #1." The most innovative piece in the collection, it is a gem. Dulin composed a beautiful solo piano introduction, and then overlays the melody with subtle strings and lovely piano improvisations. Part of the charm of the original piece is its spare, haunting melody. These additions don't detract from that simplicity, but create a duet with one pianist playing the piece as written and the second improvising over the top - a gorgeous interpretation. "Serenade" is based on Lizst's arrangement of Schubert's "Serenade." Dulin has added a few touches to this one, but it's a piano solo pretty much as written. "Nocturne" comes from Chopin's "Nocturne in D-flat Major." Strings are added for background color, and the original solo shimmers with Dulin's amazing sensitivity. "Prelude" is the Bach "Prelude in C," with strings and additional piano overlays. Bach strongly encouraged improvisation of his music, and I think he'd be delighted with this heartfelt interpretation. The string washes added to Lizst's "Consolation" give this haunting piece even more poignance. "The Poet" is stunning. Taken from Schumann's musical portrait of Chopin in "Carnaval," the strings again tug at the heart as the piano flows dreamily. "The Emperor's Adagio" from Beethoven's Concerto #5 is more orchestrated (as a concerto would be!), and is just beautiful. One of Michael Dulin's signature touches is including a lullaby on each of his recordings. Chopin's "Berceuse" is that lullaby. Strings are added to this elegant piece, and Dulin's loving touch makes it a gorgeous close to an exceptional album.

In our interview some months back, Michael Dulin mentioned that classical music is dying, and needs to be brought back to the attention of the general public. By updating some of these easily accessible pieces, Dulin has made a step in that direction without compromising the integrity of the music in any way. I love this album, and hope it will open some ears and hearts with its beautiful message. Very highly recommended!

I first heard this cut on Soundscapes on my Direct TV. I looked it up and Amazon had it! I have played it for dinner parties, cigar smoking, fine wine drinkin and am just plain happy I was spontaneous to use some of my credits to treat my life to some wonderful music.

I listen to Michael Dulin's "Timeless" CD nearly every morning as I read and relax, journal and watch the birds outside my window, drink my tea or coffee and prepare to take on the day. This music is especially soothing and non-intrusive, the perfect background to what I do to center myself in the morning. I love his creative touches to familiar classical pieces and they do not take away but, rather, enhance, the already gorgeous compositions.

This is an amazing compilation of music. Clare de Lune is one of my all-time favorite pieces but this whole CD is amazing.

WOW! I first heard Michael Dulin on the internet and became a fan. His arrangements are so fresh and transcending. I feel like I'm listening to his soul journeying through each piece. Thank you, Michael, for allowing me to journey with you.

The first time I heard music by Michael Dulin was on the computer radio Pandora.com. Listening to several selections from his CD album "Timeless" made me want to buy the entire album to listen to as often as I want on my CD stereo player. I have not been disappointed. "Timeless" has quite an enjoyable selection of music and is by an outstanding artist.

For those how like piano classical music, it is an excellente choice. Artist plays the piano in a differente style.The titles selection was also very good in my opinion.

Michael Dulun,s CD "Timeless" contains just that. Classical melodies which are easily recognized, played with artful finesse. Even if I think he takes license with the "real" music at times. Good listening and music to relax to.

What beautiful music! This is one cd you never tire of. Every song flows into the next which won't interupt the wonderful feelings you receive when listening. Perfect for meditation!

Michael Dulin brings New Age genre to its Classical roots with his 2004 release, "Timeless". Dulin provides us with a wonderful selection of tracks written by some of the greatest composers of all time. Listeners not familiar with the Classical geniuses of the 18th and 19th Century will be surprised with some of the compositions that we hear everyday in use with TV commercials and movies. Composers such as Debussy (Clair de Lune), Beethoven (The Emperor's Adagio), Bach (Prelude) and many others. My personal favorite is Simply Satie by French composer Erik Satie. (I've always wondered who composed this music because I heard the group, Blood, Sweat & Tears and Saxophonist Gato Barbieri perform this same melody on their albums.) Once again, as he did with previous CD reviewed by us, Dulin showcases his great talents as an arranger and pianist. His strong aesthetic attention to detail in the production is a testament to this outstanding recording. I recommend this CD to anyone who would like to rediscover the Classics.