Bold, dark, reflective, tender...Rain, the second album from composer Christopher Tyler Nickel, is truly a study in contrasts.

Defying categorization, this album weaves together a symphonic orchestral sound, Christopher's penchant for soaring melodies, as well as touches of pop, rock and minimalism into a moving and cohesive listening experience. Rain was recorded with large orchestra, choir, solo soprano and solo English Horn. Powerful, tender, dark, tranquil are just a few adjectives that describe this tour-de-force of bold musical gestures.

Rain features the exquisitely beautiful and versatile voice of soprano Catherine Redding, whose performances will instantly enrapture the listener with their crystalline beauty and emotional depth. Also featured is English horn soloist Beth Orson, whose brilliant performances include two haunting and rhapsodic solos that will leave their melodies with the listener long after. Once again, Christopher has collaborated with the City of Prague Philharmonic who offer a rich and expressive musical canvas for the two soloists' performances.

With the release of Rain, Christopher Tyler Nickel makes a bold musical statement, deftly combining disparate genres, sounds, and styles into a cohesive musical experience. This album charts a new artistic direction for the composer... one that will captivate and enthrall the listener!

 

“Horizons” marks the first album release from concert and film composer Christopher Tyler Nickel. Performed by the acclaimed City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorus, and featuring two breath-taking flute solos by Jack Chen - the music is immediately accessible with its beautiful melodies, dramatic sweeping themes, and powerful orchestrations. From the epic, to the quiet and sentimental - this is music that will move the listener, and take them on a musical journey.

 

Christmas Dreams is an exciting piece that captures many of the feelings of the Holiday Season. A dreamy, nostalgic theme begins the piece, as if someone is waking on a crisp, clear winter's morning. This theme builds to an energetic section, which captures the hustle and bustle of the holiday season...planning, shopping, and visiting family and friends. Distant fragments of Christmas Carols are heard here and there between the energetic passages. Finally, the warm theme from the opening returns to remind us of the true meaning of the holiday season, of family, friends and the spirit of Christmas. This print edition includes score and parts.