Dr. Linda Reese is a talented woman. Not only is she an accomplished physician who homeschools her three children, she’s also a gifted piano player. Though she took a double major in music and psychology while in college, she left music behind when she entered medical school. The gift of a grand piano from her family rekindled her passion for piano and has now produced four independent, instrumental CDs.
Fascinated with complex, multi-textured music from a young age, Reese shocked her piano teacher by playing an additional bass line with her left foot at the age of twelve. As an adult she relies upon an additional piano player to supplement her two hands, having left her acrobatic attempts behind her. After discovering Adam Chester, Elton John’s stand in during band rehearsals, she’s partnered with him to record rich, emotive piano music in a variety of styles.
As a self-described eclectic musician, Reese’s varied tastes are most evident on Music 4 Your Heart. Covering a gamut of broadway tunes, classical music, popular tunes, songs from soundtracks, easy listening, and some bonus inspirational pieces, the disc manages to create a unified feel through the soothing, emotive music performed throughout.
Many of the selections are well known and instantaneously recognizable such as “Somewhere,” “Moon River,” “My Heart Will Go On,” “I Can’t Help Falling in Love,” and “All I Ask of You.” With a line-up such as this, one might feel nervous about the production quality. Is this a collection of elevator-music? I’ll admit the thought crossed my mind, but the depth of the performance, and the engaging emotive quality the artists add to their work makes this CD anything but.
Featuring alternating solo pieces performed by Reese, and two piano pieces performed by both Reese and Chester, Reese proves herself a competent solo performer as well as a superb team player. The blended music from the two instruments melds into a seamless tapestry of sound that is delightful to listen to and creates a sense of calm satisfaction whenever it’s played.
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