on the ASR Label

The Glamour and Substance of Music: A Reflection on Artistry

Many still perceive a musician’s life as shrouded in mystery. At first glance, the world of musicians appears glamorous—a shimmering facade. Music videos featuring their favorite artists show them parading with wads of cash, glamorous women, and fancy cars. Concerts of popular music are a spectacle of shimmering dancers, pyrotechnics, and individuals pretending to play musical instruments. The expectation is that a successful musician is an excellent musician, and an excellent musician lives a glamorous life.

The most popular music touts a life full of the darkest habits and pleasures; ultimately, glorifying money, sex, illicit drugs, and violence as an escape from life’s hardships. Music becomes the conduit through which anyone can promote their new Messiah. And so, those who don’t even know what a dominant chord is can spew out vitriol and hate language without consequence. The people chant, “Give me more! It has a nice beat.”

Don’t get me wrong; I will continue to value freedom of speech. I will continue to value freedom of artistic taste and expression; however, it can be somewhat disheartening when those who consume music purely for entertainment seem to prioritize glamour over excellence.

One of my favorite music videos is that of the renowned pianist Evgeny Kissin playing “La Campanella” in one of the finest halls, elegantly dressed in a tuxedo. It was an exquisite and expertly executed performance. At the end of the video, you can see him waiting at the back exit of the concert hall, holding a bouquet of flowers. The big takeaway for me was that he did not have a full audience, and when his ride arrived, it was a Volkswagen instead of a limo.

Don’t be fooled. Excellence transcends time and space, and for some, it still holds immortality. It is true for Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, even though he was buried in a pauper’s grave. It is true for Joseph Haydn, who chose humble service as a working musician over a glamorous life in Vienna. True musical excellence endures beyond material glamour.

I invite you to explore my new piano compositions, Seven Pieces. I believe in pursuing a passion for true musical artistry, in transcending fleeting trends, and crafting music that resonates with timeless elegance.

Seven Pieces by David E Gonzalez is available on many online music streaming platforms. Look for it at your favorite online store.

Embrace the Emotional Journey of “Deep Mist” – A Cinematic Music Album by David E. Gonzalez

In a world where music serves as a universal language, composer and musician David E. Gonzalez invites listeners on an emotional journey through his captivating album, “Deep Mist.” This collection of music stands as a testament to the power of creativity and its ability to heal and inspire, resonating with a diverse audience of music enthusiasts, film aficionados, and anyone seeking solace in the beauty of art.

“Deep Mist” is a symphony of poignant, melancholic, cinematic, and synthetic textures that weave together seamlessly to create an immersive experience. Drawing on his mastery of synthesizers, keyboards, bass guitar, classical guitar, and percussion, David crafts a melodic landscape that is both timeless and contemporary. With over two decades of arranging experience, his compositions possess a maturity and depth that sets them apart.

David E. Gonzalez is a seasoned musician, composer, and arranger with a passion for evoking emotions through his music. With decades of experience and a diverse array of musical influences, David's work transcends genres and touches the hearts of audiences worldwide. His latest album, "Deep Mist," stands as a testament to the power of music to heal and inspire.

The album comprises ten soul-stirring songs: “Deep Mist,” “Magic Beans,” “Inland Seagulls,” “Basket Weaver,” “Moon Flower,” “Jungle Lullaby,” “Sailor’s Dream,” “Seventh Madness,” “Crystal Reef,” and “New Moon.” Each track is a testament to David’s profound ability to connect with his audience on an emotional level. From the hauntingly beautiful “Inland Seagulls,” featuring the Native American flute and djembe, to the contemplative and mesmerizing sounds of “Jungle Lullaby,” the album takes listeners on a transformative journey.

But what makes “Deep Mist” even more captivating is the story behind its creation. The music was composed during a challenging time in David’s life, marked by personal loss and grief. Like the great masters before him, David turned to his craft as a source of solace and expression. He discovered that through music, he could capture emotions that eluded words, transcending conventional language to convey the depth of his feelings.

In his own words, David shares, “Ludwig van Beethoven composed some of the most beautiful music during the most difficult times in his life. That would prove true for me, too. Somehow, the ‘Deep Mist’ compositions express exactly how I feel about a specific time in my life. They embody my feelings.”

The album’s profound impact on listeners is evident as it promotes deep sleep to restless minds, offering a therapeutic experience that is both soothing and introspective. The compositions’ evocative nature transports listeners to realms of beauty and introspection, making it ideal for music lovers, film enthusiasts, and those seeking emotional catharsis.

“Deep Mist” is available for streaming and download on popular music platforms such as Apple Music/iTunes, Spotify, and YouTube Music. David’s masterful use of sound design and arrangements suggests that the music could easily translate into orchestral performances, further extending its appeal to a wider audience.

This album is not just a collection of songs; it’s an invitation to embark on a profound and transformative musical odyssey. Embrace the enchanting world of “Deep Mist” and discover the healing power of music.

For more information and to listen to “Deep Mist,” visit Spotify; iTunes/Apple Music; YouTube.

About David E. Gonzalez:

David E. Gonzalez is a seasoned musician, composer, and arranger with a passion for evoking emotions through his music. With decades of experience and a diverse array of musical influences, David’s work transcends genres and touches the hearts of audiences worldwide. His latest album, “Deep Mist,” stands as a testament to the power of music to heal and inspire.

Orfeo Ed Euridice: Melodie De Gluck (Ballet II)

Try this.  Get a tomato seed and place it in your hand.  Few of you would ever say that you have a tomato plant in your hand.  Now plant it in the ground.  It is now covered in dirt and you have begun to water it.  If you showed someone your tomato plant, many would still doubt that you have a tomato plant.  As the tomato plant goes through different stages towards maturity, you may still find those who still doubt that you have a tomato plant.
As a beginning flutist, I was introduced to the Melodie de Gluck.  I immediately fell in love with the piece and the flutist for his interpretation of the piece.  The piece became an inspiration to practice diligently.  At first I practiced the piece quite often.  At times I would record myself playing it, but I was never satisfied with my interpretation of the piece.  Time would march on and eventually I became intimately acquainted with the piece.  Playing it became more than an interpretation.  It became something that I could say–like speaking.

What I didn’t fully appreciate was the fact that a tomato plant is a tomato plant even if it hasn’t produced ripe tomatoes yet.  It is perfect at every stage of development.

Click the video below to play along with this piano accompaniment.  There are many place where you can get the sheet music free online.  Click here for one example>

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