Der Flötist gilt als Pionier einer Entspannungsmusik, die auch medizinischen Kriterien standhält. Auf der Grundlage seines Ansatzes entstand im Universitätskrankenhaus Chicago ein Forschungsprojekt, das die Wirkung von Klängen auf das Gehirn und Nervensystem untersuchte. Ergebnis: Diese Musik ist besonders gut für Stressbewältigung geeignet. Zu zarten Synthesizerharmonien erklingen Bassflöte, Cello, Piano und Englisch Horn.

the project

By combining written and improvised musical elements, Edward Christmas has created compositions which are at once intelligently crafted and emotionally moving. Synthesizers, piano, and cello, superbly played by a handful of top classical musicians, accompany Edward Christmas' bass flute. The bass flute is a powerfully expressive instrument with a deep, mellow and pulsating sound. It gives exceptional warmth and intimacy to the music.

Song of the Golden Lotus is a compilation of selections from previous releases by Edward Christmas. The music has been remastered and some of the pieces have been condensed resulting in a melodious and vibrant recording.

the artist

Edward Christmas considers himself a flute stylist. His instrument is a handmade, pure silver bass flute. The overtones in a bass flute are more prominent than in a C flute (where the fundamental tone takes precedence). Though the size and weight of the bass flute make it difficult to play for long periods of time, Christmas chose the instrument because of its exceptional tonal qualities.

Born in 1941, Christmas began playing flute at age nine. He studied flute and composition at the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago and played in jazz groups throughout college. His musical career has been augmented by his talents in other areas. Christmas has been a photo-journalist for Life Magazine, Look Magazine, and the Chicago Sun-Times. He has worked in film and created a documentary for WGN-TV. A painter and writer, he has designed album covers and has been involved in music research.

tracklist

1 In the Garden 13'40"
2 Toward the City 5'09"
3 Song of the Golden Lotus 6'55"
4 Carol's Song 5'31"
5 Song for Carol 8'35"
6 Hymn to a New Age 11'32"
7 Devata 7'37"
  Total Time: 59'25"