Impressions of Water and Light is the first album of The Masterworks Trilogy in which I explore the intersections between classical and jazz piano. It won "Album of the Year" in 2014 at SoloPiano.com.
Impressions was perhaps the most effortless of the three, since Impressionism has many things in common with modern jazz. When I began this album, however, I had no idea it would turn into a Trilogy...
After completing Midwinter Born, I had a few ideas leftover that I
thought might form the core of a new solo piano project. While playing a jazz chord progression, struggling to
decide on a melody, I realized Claire de Lune kept whispering over the top. It made me think back to when I was a kid.
Debussy was my grandfather's favorite composer and George Gershwin was my mother's. I have always thought of the
two together, not only because of this personal connection, but also because there are many jazz tendencies that
find their harmonic roots in the Impressionist music of Debussy and others.
Why not approach the music of the Impressionists as a contemporary jazz musician? I could explore this
connection as I lose myself in the music, spontaneously... let myself find my own impressions, as if the written
notes were light and my imagination was water.
I thought the project would turn into a jazz collection with Impressionist overtones, and some of
these pieces are. But mostly I found myself forging a balance between Impressionism and jazz, creating a
Neo-Classical post-Impressionist hybrid: Impressionist Jazz. Some pieces sound like re-arrangements, familiar, yet with a new
tonal setting. Some are fresh compositions that merely quote a few known passages. Some are theme and
variations, as old and new duel, collaboratively. All are Fantasies that explore the intimacy between jazz
and Impressionist music, between myself and some of my favorite composers. I hope you are able to go back to the
originals, to reconnect with them; the contrast will heighten your enjoyment. I know I'll never hear them
the same again.
“
Impressions of Water and Light is Mueller’s discourse with the great
Impressionist composers. Some of the tracks are variations on, or new tonal arrangements of, the
original melodies; others are new songs that merely quote the source as a departure point for exploration.
In every case, the listener has the sense that Mueller is having his personal conversation
as a composer and pianist with these great 19th- and 20th-century composers.
A good example of this is in Dance for a Princess Gone. Mueller sees the melody as a
“lullaby of care and loss,” and he alters the chords in a New Age jazz manner
to create an aching melancholy. Other highlights include: River God at Play,
based on Ravel’s Jeux d’eau, in which Mueller delivers the tinkling water in the treble
and the resonant deep in the bass; his virtuoso arrangement of John Alden Carpenter’s
Tango Américaine; Sitting with Satie, in which Mueller takes inspiration from Bill Evans’s 1963
Conversations with Myself. The sound is very live and sensitive to the nuances of the piano.
The printed booklet is a lovely addition to the experience. In it Mueller pairs a late
19th-century or early 20th-century painting with each of the tracks and adds his own
liner notes analyzing the musical and poetic themes of the melodies and their connection
to the visual universe of the painters.
I like to think of some Impressionist music as Pastoral pre-Jazz. Sophisticated modal harmonies and
playful improvisation give shape to fluid dissonance, yet avoid the urban agitations and twentieth century
displacements (syncopation) that energize much of modern jazz. Many Impressionist pieces flip from idea to
idea without conformity, like a catbird scatting. Idyllic, illusive running brooks pervade many of it's
melodies. Still meadows, gardens in full bloom, a sunrise over drifting waves, and the exultations of
springtime give much of this music dreamy context and inspiration. Sensual music, mythic yet tactile.
This poetic essence is what I've tried to illuminate in each of my interpretations, regardless of the
genre they (almost) fall into.
“
These piano realizations are inventive, as they creatively flower from the roots of familiar impressionistic
compositions. They are wonderfully played by Tobin Mueller with sumptuous yet carefree styling. A
beautiful synthesis of melodic tethers, pleasing harmonics and jazzy counterpoint."
- Richard Schletty
Debussy has been called "the determining factor in the music of the 20th century because of the doors he
opened and the restraints he cast aside." That is one of the reasons his works form the core of my explorations.
The other reason is my love for his music. What a fabulous cultural time. I've paired paintings of the era with
each of the pieces to add one more layer...
Impressions of Water and Light — Liner Notes by the composer
The first track is based on La fille aux cheveux de lin: Très calme et doucement expressif (The Girl
with the Flaxen Hair), Prelude #8 from "Préludes: Book 1" by Claude Debussy. Each book was written in
a matter of months, at an unusually fast pace for Debussy. Book one was written between December 1909
and February 1910, and book two between the last months of 1912 and early April 1913. I stick fairly
close to the original form during the opening (and ending), although only 6 chords use the actual
written notes. I hope my chord substitutions bring a fresh feel to the piece. I am ever mindful of the
composer's initial flow and intent, even in the bluesy section that deviates completely from the score.
2.
Leur chanson se mêle au Clair de Lune (Claude Debussy)
"Leur chanson se mêle au clair de lune" (Their song mingles with the moonlight) is taken from the
French poem Clair de Lune written by Paul Verlaine in the year 1869. It is the inspiration for the
third and most famous movement of Debussy's 1890 Suite bergamasque of the same name:
Clair de lune. Debussy commenced the suite in 1890 at age 28, but he did not finish
or publish it until 1905. I had written this chord progression long before I knew what melody it would accompany.
Debussy's Clair de Lune haunted me, and, thus, after I wed the two, the "Impressions
of Water & Light" project was born. The waterfall-like arpeggiated section in the middle is the only section of
the piece in which I play (mostly) the notes as written.
Pavane pour une infante défunte (Dance for a Dead Princess) was written by
the French composer Maurice Ravel in 1899 when he was studying composition at the Conservatoire de Paris
under Gabriel Fauré. I first played this song when I was a teenager, during the last year of my sister's
life. Although Ravel wrote this as a romantic song, I have always interpreted it as a lullaby. Romance
and loss, tragedy and beauty, nostalgia and longing are all included. Most of the chords have been
subtly altered by a note or two, blending in hymn-like New Age jazz timbres. The inserted middle section
represents a dream sequence I imagine playing inside the surviving mother's mind as she recalls her
lost child. The fallen final note was added to signal that the lullaby is over and real life has, again,
intruded. The illustration: Frédéric Bazille's The Terrace at Meric, with the
seemingly unfinished sketch of a young woman haunting the shadows.
Maurice Ravel wrote on the 1901 manuscript of Jeux d’eau, "Dieu fluvial riant de l'eau
qui le chatouille..." a quote from Henri de Régnier's Cité des eaux, translated as "River
god laughing as the water tickles him..." which inspired my title, "River god at play." Jeux
d’eau is a marvel of flowing impressionistic perfection, dedicated to Gabriel Fauré and
inspired by Franz Liszt's Les jeux d'eau à la Villa d'Este. My variations grew out of the
rehearsal process, moments when I'd let myself get lost in the musical imageries and find
my way out onto new harmonic seascapes. I love the way my internal fantasies lay alongside
Ravel's own passages. Claude Monet's “Japanese Bridge” beckons, with its flaring colors and
fluid motions, just as Ravel’s music, to find, as Monet said, “that perfect moment we spend a
lifetime trying to capture, hoping to experience.”
Le Petit Négre (1909, Debussy) was originally intended to be the sixth composition
in a collection "The Children's Corner" loosely based on things in Debussy's daughter's room.
Le Petit Négre is about a black doll belonging to Debussy's
daughter employs ragtime rhythms associated with African-American composers who had just come into
fashion, like Scott Joplin. It was replaced in "The Children's Corner" by "The Golliwog's Cakewalk"
(track 10) and "Le Petit Negre" became a stand-alone piece. I went further into the future history
of jazz than ragtime for my set of variations. Yet, even the frenetic boogie woogie section is based
on riffs used in Debussy's original music. I deviate so far from the original score, I felt it necessary
to add "variations" to the title.
Rêverie (1880/1884) is one of Debussy's most beautiful and loved works, even
though the composer was dissatisfied with it. "I very much regret your decision to publish Rêverie,"
Debussy testily wrote to publisher Eugène Fromont. "I wrote it in a hurry years ago and purely for
commercial purposes. It is a work of no significance and, frankly, I consider it absolutely no good."
Aside from the introductory section, altered transitions, and liberties with tempo and timing, I play
this piece mostly as written; although I hope my interpretation and occasional harmonic additions
transforms it into something new. Rêverie is animated by romance, spontaneity and daydreaming. It
represents the earliest known instance of Debussy working in the "impressionistic" musical vocabulary
that would become his trademark, and, thus, has great significance, no matter what the composer believed.
The Studio Boat by Claude Monet depicts Monet's converted boat from which he studied light and reflection.
Tango Américaine (1920) is an elegant example of American
composer John Alden Carpenter's ability to apply Impressionistic stylings to other musical genres,
in this case, the Tango. Carpenter was born in Park Ridge, Illinois, and educated at Harvard University
(where he was president of the Hasty-Pudding Glee Club). After studying under Edward Elgar (composer
of "Pomp and Circumstance"), Carpenter earned a comfortable living as vice-president of the family
business, a mill supply company from 1909 to his retirement in 1936, writing music throughout his
life, especially after retiring. I play his Tango much slower than marked and use a light, staccato
touch, which I feel brings out a sense of restraint and grace. And though I let my imagination lead
the melody on a few improvised side steps, for the most part I stick to the original structure and
progressions. I chose "Etude pour Tango" (Sonia Delaunay-Terk) as a visual accompaniment because of
its combination of swirling motion and chic boldness.
Les sons et les parfums tournent dans l'air du soir (Sounds and scents turn in
the evening air) was inspired by the poem by Charles Baudelaire, "Harmonie du soir" (Evening
Harmony). The poetry suggests many images and muted yet colorful moods. This is the fourth
of the Preludes that comprise Book I of Debussy's Préludes for piano. My interpretation greatly
simplifies the darker and darting original, creating a moody yet coy jazz-blues groove that
emphasizes the brief Gershwin-like moments in the score. Baudelaire often combined erotic and
aesthetic themes, and would’ve loved jazz, I think. He was an important innovator of prose
poetry. I've chosen Picasso's "Blind Man's Meal" (1903) to illustrate both the music and
poem, calling this fantasy "Blue Prelude."
Pavane, written in 1887 by the French composer Gabriel Fauré, was
originally a piano piece, but became better known after Fauré arranged it for orchestra and
optional chorus. Devastatingly simple, with a gorgeous melody, it inspired both Ravel and
Debussy to write a pavane of their own (see track 3). My first verse speaks to the "romantic
helplessness of man", which is the subject of the choral lyrics. My left hand plays 16th notes
instead of 8ths, giving me more room to explore lush minor key variations. When the jazz
progressions kick in during the later verses, they serve as examples of uncertainty, of struggle,
of searching. I quote Fauré's original piano in my final verse; I thought it dramatic to
place it last, as a cleansing statement of purity, as if innocence survived. I chose
Degas' The Tub I (Woman Bathing in a Shallow Pan) to illustrate.
Golliwog's Cakewalk is the final of six movements from Debussy's "The
Children's Corner", published in 1908. It is dedicated to Debussy's daughter, who was three
years old at the time. The golliwog was a black character in children's books in the late 19th
century usually depicted as a type of rag doll. My take on the song evokes more the magic of
"stepping out on the town" than a child's room. This is why I used the fantastical Portrait de
Félix Fénéon (Paul Signac) to illustrate. I hope you enjoy the way I took Debussy's youthful
melody and made it swing just a bit. Harmonically, I embellish Debussy's playful dissonances
and completely replace the left hand rhythmic framework with chromatic syncopation. As in a few
other arrangements, I expand the main themes and edited out secondary ones, shaping the song into
more of a jazz standard format.
A Giddy Girl, published in 1922, is the 4th movement of "Histoires",
a 10 piece song cycle by the French composer Jacques Ibert (1890 – 1962), the "youngest"
composer I've included in this collection. My arrangement of A Giddy Girl
is the only one in which I play every measure of the original score, without editing out any phrases or
sections. I have added passing notes throughout that act like counter melodies,
transforming the piece while maintaining the original simplicity and 1920s charm. I
also take great liberty with tempo, trying to capture the dizzy romantic swoon of the Giddy Girl. Mary
Cassatt's contemplative yet reeling portrait, Lydia Leaning on Her Arms, illustrates.
La cathédrale engloutie (The Sunken Cathedral) was published in 1910 as the 10th
prelude in Book I of Debussy's Préludes. This piece is based on an ancient Breton
myth in which a cathedral, submerged underwater off the coast of the Island of Ys, rises up from the sea on
clear mornings when the water is transparent. Incorporating Debussy’s melodic theme into a jazz groove made
me feel like I was walking the streets of Rouen, synthesizing everything around me. I have renamed this
fantasy "Risen Cathedral," imagining the cathedral already risen as I pass, my present distractions
contrasted against its ancient magic (when the chordal section arrives at 2:48). Choosing one image from
Monet's "The Rouen Cathedral" series proved difficult, but I settled on Morning Effect.
I thought the contrast of colors best fit the music.
I saw Frank Sinatra on The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson many years ago.
With an impish grin, Johnny asked him, "So, when you're entertaining a young lady in your home, do you play
Sinatra (to try and seduce her), like the rest of us?" "No," Frank replied, "I put on something classy, like
The Sunken Cathedral."
13.
Sitting with Satie: Conversation & Life (Erik Satie)
Sitting with Satie: Conversation & Life was conceived as a medley in which I
play the main piano interpretations and then overdub a second part, similar to "Conversations with
Myself" (1963) by pianist Bill Evans. Instead of separating the differing performances by panning them
left/right, as he did, I separate them spatially via reverb. Satie's Trois Gymnopédies
(1888) and Gnossienne (1890), Debussy's Prelude 6 and my own
music (inspired by Satie) are combined. The medley begins with Satie's simple purity, evolves into tumult
and trauma, then returns to try (in vain) to capture that initial simplicity. Satie is a master of creating
space, and I hope the use of extra reverb during the "conversation" helps to fill it with a sense of homage.
The transition out of 1 ére Gymnopédie is done with the help of Debussy's
Footprints in the Snow (Prelude 6), although many additional notes are added. I play the melancholy
Lent from 1 Gnossienne with a near violent un-Satie urgency
and completely new chords that become more jazz oriented as they are repeated. It eventually gives way to my
own transitional section inspired by Satie's 3 ére Gymnopédie. The recapitulation
of 1 ére Gymnopédie includes a new melodic duet, which I imagine accompanying the
lone man sitting on the bench in Paul Signac's Place des Lices. Surely, those trees
are swaying with music all their own...
Instead of Heaven - Mueller follows his upbeat jazz ensemble album What Survives with a series of contemplative piano meditations. All original compositions using Greek myth as inspiration, this 10-track album forms a lyrical song cycle, a spiritual journey of both emotional and intellectual content. Melds modal post-bop, Romanticism, Jazz Impressionism and New Age styles. Influences include: Keith Jarrett, Brad Mehldau, Michel Camilo, as well as Chopin, Debussy, Rachmaninoff. "Each composition is breathtaking, adding to the musical language of both modal post-bop jazz and neo-classical piano." George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly
Flow: The Music of J.S. Bach and Tobin Mueller is a double album featuring
Mueller's reinterpretations of Bach's greatest hits (Disc 1) plus two original jazz piano suites by Mueller
(Disc 2). Inventive, playful, joyous, beautiful, full of emotion and intelligence. Mueller embraces the sense
of timelessness one achieves when in the state of flow, bridging the centuries, letting Bach's 300 year
old manuscripts inspire through new expression. Jazz influences include Brad Mehldau, Fred Hersch, Gerald Clayton. "This may be the pianist-composer’s most ambitious and sophisticated recording. Highly recommended." Fanfare Magazine's 2015 Editor's Choice.
Of Two Minds: The Music of Frédéric Chopin and Tobin Mueller is the final addition to
Mueller's "Masterworks Trilogy" in which he explores the intersections of classical and jazz piano. Mueller reinterprets
Chopin's most iconic piano solos (Disc 1) and uses the preludes
to inspire three original jazz piano sonatas (Disc 2). Seductive, rebellious, heroic and beautiful. Jazz influences include Chick Corea, Dave Brubeck, Keith Jarrett. "One would be hard-pressed to find an artist with a more creative musical mind than Tobin Mueller’s." Fanfare Magazine's 2016 Editor's Choice.
Impressions of Water & Light is an exploration of the cross-inspirations between Impressionist and jazz piano,
including adaptations of music by Debussy, Ravel, Fauré, Satie, Ibert and Carpenter. Tobin uses the written notes as if they are light and his imagination as if
it is water, creating all new interpretations. This post-Impressionist
music illustrates the intimacy between jazz and Impressionist music. You will
never hear these works the same again. The gorgeous CD booklet is a work of art in itself, pairing an Impressionist
painting with each piece. One of the three album in Mueller's "Masterworks Trilogy".
Midwinter Born is a collection of jazz piano interpretations of traditional
Christmas carols. Mueller captures the quiet simplicity, expectant playfulness and over-riding joy of the season. A
delightful and sometimes surprising album destined to become one of your annual holiday favorites. The 18 track album includes: First
Noel, Bring A Torch Jeanette Isabella, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O Holy Night, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Carol of the Bells, Lo How A Rose E'er Bloom, Good King Wenceslas, Still, Still, Still and many more.
Morning Whispers is Tobin's first solo piano collection, a song cycle of
tragic beauty. Music of healing and introspection. The use of key changes,
unusual time signatures, and other variational devices makes this work involving, not merely New Age background music. Its gentle intensity, however, does not detract from its healing essence, its sense of inner joy. Influences include
Aaron Copland, Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, Bill Evans, David Lanz, Liz Story. Several of these piano pieces have since been used in film and documentaries.
13 Masks is Tobin's second solo piano collection. An exploration of the links between avant-garde 20th Century music and jazz. Tobin used illustrations of 13 medieval masks to inspire songs combining ragtime, jazz and 20th Century avant-garde
classical. Influences
include Thelonious Monk, Dave Brubeck, Art Tatum, Scott Joplin, John Medeski, as well as classical composers Shostakovich, Ligeti, Bartok. These pieces will startle and delight.
"A truly unique album with music to really sink your teeth into."
Afterwords - Combining spoken word and
solo piano, Tobin "illustrates" his favorite works of literature with a wide variety of new
musical compositions. He pays homage to classic authors like Hemmingway, Steinbeck, Vonnegut,
Faulkner, as well as new authors Dave Eggers, Chuck Palahniuk, Aimee Bender and China Miéville. Musical influences include Oscar Peterson, Hiromi, Brad Maldheu, Fred Hersch, John Taylor, even Keith Emerson. "An astonishing work of art." Jazziz's 2017 Critics' Choice.
Afterwords: Solo Piano Bonus Tracks - For those of you who prefer music without any interruptions, seven of the best tracks from Afterwords have been remastered with the talking edited out. Originally conceived for distribution to jazz radio stations, this Bonus Album is now avaiilable to the egeneral public. Influences include Oscar Peterson, Hiromi, Brad Maldheu, Fred Hersch, John Taylor; post-bop, stride, new age, classic jazz.
Standard Deviations - Jazz/Blues - Although this is mainly an ensemble album, half the tracks on Disc 2 of this two volume recording are solo piano arrangements. Think of this is a piano album with fabulous guest artists sitting in on 2/3s of the tunes! See Standard Deviations project page for complete Liner Notes and several Bonus Tracks. "The greatest collection of reimagined standards in the last decade."
Best of Tobin Mueller, Volumes 1-2 - First two volumes of his 5-volume compilation, presenting Mueller's best Contemporary Jazz, Funk, Fusion, Blues, more. A stunning collection featuring such greats as Ron Carter, Donny McCaslin, Paul Nelson, Dane Richeson, Scott Rockenfield and Woody Mankowski. Mueller is front and center on piano, B3 organ, vintage keys. "Nothing short of excellent. Mueller has performed across the entire spectrum of jazz, creating a fabulous assortment of classics."
Prestidigitation - The best of Contemporary Jazz Fusion. Mueller's all-star band takes on Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Frank Zappa, John Coltrane, Weather Report, Stevie Wonder, Bill Evans, Tower of Power and more. Featured soloists: Paul Nelson (Grammy-winning guitarist), David Dejesus (Birdland Jazz Band director), Ruben de Ruiter (John Patitucci Band), Woody Mankowski (What Survives)... "A jazz-fusion tour de force. Each spin and turn opens the door to a new interpretive wrinkle that is sure to delight."
What Survives - Radio Edits - Jazz - Remastered Radio Edits of the best tracks from What Survives - Volumes 1 & 2. Fresh and spontaneous yet expertly crafted arrangements. Contemporary Jazz at its finest. Ensemble includes: Woody Mankowski, Ron Carter, Bill Barner, Doug Schneider, Tom Washatka, Ken Schaphorst, Bob Levy, Dane Richeson, Martyn Kember-Smith and Tobin’s nephew Chris Mueller. CD contains 15 tracks; digital version includes 3 Bonus Tracks.
Standard Deviations - Jazz/Blues - Keyboardist Tobin Mueller is joined by Grammy-winner Paul Nelson (guitars), Woody Mankowski (saxophones), Lamar Moore & Mike Nappi (percussionists) to breathe new life into 33 standards in this fresh Two Volume CD. An homage to Monk, Ellington, Gershwin, Brubeck, Bernstein, Berlin, Kern, Mercer, Hoagy Carmichael, Lennon-McCartney, Richard Rodgers, Harold Arlen, Billy Strayhorn and more. "The greatest collection of reimagined standards in the last decade."
Come In Funky Old School Funk and and small combo Jazz featuring
legendary bassist Ron Carter. "You guys can play! These are, almost without exception, very complicated numbers in terms of rhythm and the general sync of
solos with ensemble playing, a stellar set of recordings that, I believe, adds seriously to the body of jazz that this represents. A remarkable work in every single way I can think of. This is such a bright and happy album that is played with a spirit of invention and joy from the first notes to the last." - Paul Page
The Muller's Wheel is a collaborative project combining the
talents of pianist Tobin Mueller and saxophonist Woody Mankowski, featuring their jazz quartet and their larger 8-pieace ensemble, playing swing to bop to fusion to funk. The
styles of Count Basie, Charlie Parker, Lester Young, Herbie Hancock, The Brecker Brothers, Weather Report and more
influence this homage to the jazz greats. This is joyous music. "It reminds us of the happiness we relive when returning to our musical roots," say Mueller and Mankowski.
Rain Bather is an 80 minute long play CD featuring superlative solo performances by all-star band members. Most of the tunes are in the jazz-funk-fusion vein,
but many others try to break new ground, defying easy labels. Tobin Mueller - B3 organ, synth;
Woody Mankowski - soprano sax;
Chris Mueller - acoustic piano;
Jeff Cox - acoustic bass;
Dane Richeson - drums;
Tom Washatka - tenor sax;
Doug Schnieder - tenor sax;
Ken Schaphorst - flugelhorn;
Bob Levy - trumpet;
Sal Giorgianni - flute;
Bill Barner - clarinet.
WONDER - progressive rock/pop Jazz Fusion. Although this tour de force double album is mainly about the power of progressive rock, Mueller's interpretive jazz keyboards add a modal flavor to each track. Styles transcends prog and pop, with influences of jazz, classical, electronica and world music layered throughout. Features rearrangements of songs from his Audiocracy years, rock operas and stage shows, plus new material certain to blow you away.
Mickey Spleen Save the Day - Jazz Musical Theatre. This delightful recording is Mueller's educational children's musical about the human body, health and the immune system. It features his CenterStage youth Theatre Troupe performing his film noir who-done-it musical comedy. Characters include Mickey Spleen, Vinny Virus, The Lymphette Sisters and the GI Guys. Mueller wrote 8 children's musicals, but this is the only all-jazz score.
Instead of Heaven - Contemplative piano meditations, all original compositions using Greek myth as inspiration. 10-tracks forms a lyrical song cycle, a spiritual journey both emotional and intellectual. Melds modal post-bop, Contemporary Romanticism, Jazz Impressionism and New Age styles. Influences include: Keith Jarrett, Brad Mehldau, Michel Camilo, as well as Chopin, Debussy, Rachmaninoff. "Uniquely breathtaking, adding to the musical language of contemporary piano." George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly
Afterwords - Combining spoken word and
solo piano, Tobin "illustrates" his favorite works of literature with a wide variety of new
musical compositions. He pays homage to classic authors like Hemmingway, Steinbeck, Vonnegut,
Faulkner, as well as new authors Dave Eggers, Chuck Palahniuk, Aimee Bender and China Miéville. Musical influences include Oscar Peterson, Hiromi, Brad Maldheu, Fred Hersch, John Taylor, even Keith Emerson. "An astonishing work of art."
Flow: The Music of J.S. Bach and Tobin Mueller, especially Disc 2 - Tobin plays Tobin. Two post-bop jazz piano suites make up Disc 2. Each shows Bach influences, but draws more from contemporaries Brad Mehldau, Fred Hersch and Gerald Clayton. "This may be the pianist-composer’s most ambitious and sophisticated recording project to date... a journey that inevitably explores the interactions of Baroque and jazz." Fanfare Magazine's 2015 Editor's Choice Award.
Of Two Minds: The Music of Frédéric Chopin and Tobin Mueller, especially Disc 2 - Tobin plays Tobin. Three original jazz piano sonatas make up Disc 2. Each shows Chopin influences, but draws more from contemporaries Chick Corea, Dave Brubeck and Keith Jarrett. "One would be hard-pressed to find an artist with a more creative musical mind than Tobin Mueller’s - especially one with the playing chops to fulfill his or her vision." Fanfare Magazine's 2016 Editor's Choice Award.
Impressions of Water and Light is an exploration of the cross-inspirations between Impressionist and contemporary jazz piano,
including adaptations of music by Debussy, Ravel, Fauré, Satie, Ibert and Carpenter. "The listener has the sense that Mueller is having his personal conversation as a composer and pianist with these great 19th- and 20th-century composers." This is third album of "The Masterworks Trilogy" which includes Flow and Of Two Minds.
Midwinter Born is a collection of jazz piano interpretations of traditional
Christmas carols. Mueller captures the quiet simplicity, expectant playfulness and over-riding joy of the season. The 18 track album includes: First
Noel, Bring A Torch Jeanette Isabella, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, O Holy Night, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Carol of the Bells, Lo How A Rose E'er Bloom, Good King Wenceslas, Still, Still, Still and many more.
Morning Whispers is Tobin's first solo piano collection, a song cycle of
tragic beauty. Music of healing and introspection, these New Age and Neo-Classical pieces do more than evoke emotion: they tell stories. Influences include Aaron Copland, Bill Evans, David Lanz, Liz Story. Several of these piano pieces have since been used in film and documentaries.
13 Masks is Tobin's second solo piano collection. An exploration of the links between avant-garde 20th Century music and jazz, influences
include Thelonious Monk, Dave Brubeck, Art Tatum, John Medeski, as well as classical composers Stravinsky, Shostakovich, Ligeti, Bartok. "A truly unique album with music to really sink your teeth into."
Afterwords: Solo Piano Bonus Tracks - For those of you who prefer music without any interruptions, seven of the best tracks from Afterwords have been remastered with the talking edited out. Originally conceived for distribution to jazz radio stations, this Bonus Album is now avaiilable to the egeneral public. Influences include Oscar Peterson, Hiromi, Brad Maldheu, Fred Hersch, John Taylor; post-bop, stride, new age, classic jazz.
WONDER - progressive rock/pop fusion. This tour de force double album combines the power and virtuosity of prog with the intimate simplicity of lullabies. Track list alternates between vocals songs and instrumentals, giving time to contemplate Mueller's poetic lyrics. Styles transcends prog and pop, with influences of jazz, classical, electronica and world music layered throughout. Features appearances by Michael Hedges, Scott Rockenfield, Bob Piper (Pleiades), Anton Mueller (Audiocracy), Steve Stone, Aaron Paul, Lennon Loveday (Shadow of Nine), more...
Prestidigitation - Contemporary Prog Fusion. Mueller's all-star band takes on Frank Zappa, Yes, Happy the Man, Weather Report, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Stevie Wonder, Sly Stone and more. Featured soloists: Paul Nelson (Grammy-winning guitarist), David Dejesus (Birdland Jazz Band director), Ruben de Ruiter (John Patitucci Band), Woody Mankowski (What Survives)... "A jazz-fusion tour de force. Each spin and turn opens the door to a new interpretive wrinkle that is sure to delight."
Audiocracy - progressive rock - A post-political neo-prog concept
album. Tobin Mueller: vocals, keyboards; Twøn: vocals, bass;
Darren Chapman: guitars; Bob Piper/Tadashi Togawa: guitars; Rob Thurman: drums. "A symphonic whirlwind of passion and sensations. With their tight, gorgeous arrangements,
the songs used every hertz of my sound system. The album flows from idea to idea like birds winging from
tree to tree. I predict you will return to this album time and time again, gaining new insight, just like
I did." - Progressive Magazine.
A Bit of Light - A progressive folk / cross-genre collection of songs Tobin's been accumulating for a decade,
A Bit of Light includes some of his favorite collaborations with
saxophonists, fiddle players and guitarists, mixing jazz, bluegrass, tango and folk-rock. World renown violinist Entcho Todorov, Grammy winner
saxophonist Danny McCaslin and L.A.'s Woody Mankowski, Enlish fiddler Martyn Kember-Smith and guitarist John Luper provide fabulous highlights. The CD comes
with a digital booklet in PDF format.
If I Could Live Long Enough - Previously unreleased
outtakes from earlier projects, including the 1998-1999 Rain Bather sessions, the 2004-2006 MacJams collaborations, and selected songs from two of Mueller's musicals: Creature and Runners In A Dream.
Featuring acoustic guitar by Grammy winner Michael Hedges, vocals by Woody Mankowski and Emily Rohm,
and some of Mueller's best songwriting. Six free Bonus Tracks available here.
September 11 Project: Ten Years Later - Music written following 9/11/2001. Tobin was asked to participate in the 10th
anniversary at Ground Zero ceremony and revisted these songs. He decided to put them out as an album instead of keep
them to myself. Since he was unable to sing at the event, after contracting a lung disorder, this music gained layers
of poignancy. Recorded in the months following the tragedy.
Standard Deviations - Jazz/Blues - Keyboardist Tobin Mueller is joined by Grammy-winner Paul Nelson (guitars), Woody Mankowski (saxophones), Lamar Moore & Mike Nappi (percussionists) to breathe new life into 33 standards in this fresh Two Volume CD. An homage to Monk, Ellington, Gershwin, Brubeck, Bernstein, Berlin, Kern, Mercer, Hoagy Carmichael, Lennon-McCartney, Richard Rodgers, Harold Arlen, Billy Strayhorn and more. "The greatest collection of reimagined standards in the last decade."
What Survives - Radio Edits - Jazz - Remastered Radio Edits of the best tracks from What Survives - Volumes 1 & 2. Fresh and spontaneous yet expertly crafted arrangements. Contemporary Jazz at its finest. Ensemble includes: Woody Mankowski, Ron Carter, Bill Barner, Doug Schneider, Tom Washatka, Ken Schaphorst, Bob Levy, Dane Richeson, Martyn Kember-Smith and Tobin’s nephew Chris Mueller. CD contains 15 tracks; digital version includes 3 Bonus Tracks.
The Muller's Wheel - Contemporary Combo Jazz - Remastered
as "Müller's Wheel," this jazz ensemble recording takes you on a joyous
history of instrumental jazz from acoustic fusion to bop, swing to funk. The happiest, hippest hour of music you'll ever hear, featuring
Tobin Mueller on piano & organ, Woody Mankowski on saxes. All original tunes that pay homage to jazz greats that came before. Released 2010; remixed and
reissued 2012.
Puzzle People - Love and loss, joy and betrayal, courage and perserverence define this spoken word offering. Each poem selected is accompanied by Mueller's original music that ranges from jazz to fusion to pop prog. The force and color of Del's readings earn this collection a high recommendation, but the synergy of Tobin's breathtaking music make this a truly compelling addition to Mueller's collected works. The CD includes 3 instrumental tracks as well.
TOBIN MUELLER: Best of the CenterStage Years - soundtrack/musicals. Compilation of 42 songs from Mueller's 9 musicals produced under the CenterStage banner. Volume One highlights his delightful children's pop rock educational music; Volume Two presents his rock opera and dramatic Broadway offerings. From humorous wordplay to romantic soliloquys to rock anthems, this music informs, inspires, entertains and satisfies.
Prestidigitation - Jazz Fusion Standards. Mueller's all-star band takes on Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Frank Zappa, Weather Report, Tower of Power, Stevie Wonder, Sly and the Family Stone, more. Featured soloists: Paul Nelson (Grammy-winning guitarist), David Dejesus (Birdland Jazz Band director), Ruben de Ruiter (John Patitucci Band), Woody Mankowski (What Survives)... "A jazz-fusion tour de force. Each spin and turn opens the door to a new interpretive wrinkle that is sure to delight."
Standard Deviations - Jazz/Blues - The only instrumental album in Tobin's "Standards" collection. An homage to Monk, Ellington, Gershwin, Brubeck, Hoagy Carmichael, Lennon-McCartney, Jerome Kern, Irving Berlin, Henri Mancini, Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer and more, featuring great players and innovative arrangements. "The greatest collection of reimagined standards in the last decade."
Song Of Myself - Tobin's favorite songs from The American Songbook, reinterpretted. Intimate, heartfelt,
devistatingly honest music. Complete lyrics and song notes are linked
from Tobin's Song of Myself page. Ballads, blues, showtunes,
folk rock, jazz - the music of Tobin's roots. These are songs he's song
for decades, arrangements that have evolved and matured with him. "American Tune" by Paul Simon. "Blackbird" by Paul McCartney. Bob Dylan's "Dignity." A
Joni Mitchell and an Elton John medly. "Being Alive" from Company (Stephen Sondheim).
"Impossible Dream" from Man of la Mancha. "Oh Danny Boy." "Frozen Man" by James Taylor.
Many more, plus two original songs by Tobin Mueller.
Hard Place To Find - Tobin has released a second volume of his
favorite songs from The American Songbook. Complete lyrics and song notes are linked from Tobin's Hard Place To Find project page.
"Still Crazy" by Paul Simon. Bob Dylan's "Shelter from the Storm"
and "Bob Dylan's Dream." Richie Haven's "Paradise." "Dulcinea" from Man of la Mancha. "Alfie" by Bacharach.
"Somewhere" from West Side Story. Many more, plus one original song by Tobin Mueller. All songs have to do
with journeying, questing, searching. Released June 2nd, 2013. "Tobin Mueller is something of a Renaissance man of the arts, and 'Hard Place To Find' presents another
volume in his prolific and impressive output. More of an art-music album than a pop release, I recommend
it if you are looking for something different and deeply personal!" - Kathy Parsons, Mainly Piano
TOBIN MUELLER: Best of the CenterStage Years - soundtrack/musicals. Compilation of 42 songs from Mueller's 9 musicals produced under the CenterStage banner. Volume One highlights his delightful children's educational music; Volume Two presents his Broadway offerings. From humorous wordplay to clever histories, romantic soliloquys to powerful rock opera duets, this music informs, inspires, entertains and satisfies.
