Reviews
Aryeh Frankfurter is amazing - San Francisco Chronicle
I run out of superlatives on the musical content of the album ... refreshing is the way in which they have been arranged and presented by the artiste in such subtle and melodic fashion. This album displays thought and sensitivity throughout. It is not long also before you discover the immense multi-instrumental talent of the artiste. I found each one beautifully arranged and played. There must be faults on this album, as I do not believe a perfect album has yet been recorded! If you find any, answers on a post card please! The sound quality is some of the best I have heard -The Folk Mag
Though not a household name, Aryeh is every bit as relevant as others with higher profiles. - Essex Folk News
a gem among the San Francisco musician scene ... his arrangements and playing style have a delicate, sparkling perfection infused with lyrical warmth ... purity of tone and expression, not just on the harp but on the other instruments ... I'd give my right arm to be able to do anything, even blowing up bridges, as well as Aryeh plays O'Carolan. - Harpbeat of the Bay Folk Harp Society Journal
Without doubt [some] of the finest Celtic harp I’ve ever heard. Aryeh captures a feeling of warmth and comfort that will charm and delight anyone. Emotionally charged and skillfully rendered. Aryeh brings us diversity, individuality and beauty of the harp. - Alternate Music Press
Deeply emotive ... masterfully played. This music withstands the test of time, touching the heartstrings of the listener centuries after it was written. - Body Mind Spirit Journal
wonderfully diverse ...What I have always liked about Mr. Frankfurter's style is how aptly his arrangements and accompaniments for the melodies - nothing is there that shouldn't be there, and nothing is missing that should be there. Certainly the same "hand-in-glove" aptness is still very much present. Mr. Frankfurter has lost none of his joi de vivre or his overall attention to detail as an artist, and not many musicians can play not only the Celtic harp but many other instruments with his facility. - Folk Harp Journal
In Harp Songs of the Midnight Sun [Aryeh Frankfurter] has fulfilled his promise, as an arranger and as a player ... uncommonly lovely and haunting, and lovely counter melodies have been added, with a variety of instruments. An impressive work of arranging, as well as of performance. ... With a band, each instrumentalist will have some idea of what to add to the mix. Here, all the ideas come from one very gifted musician ... a generous CD; and considering the richness of the arrangements, to say nothing of the accomplishment represented by multitracking of some any instruments, it must have been an enormous project.- Harpsounds Folk Harp Journal
he conveys the ethos of [the music] through [rigorous] transcription[s]. The resulting music plays like a soundtrack to an unborn epic fantasy film. ... exotic. I hope as many readers as possible will journey with him. - Harpbeat by the Bay
melodic and very warm music where the fine arrangements have a fundamental presence. The heavenly ethereal Harp provides the album with a halo of emotive spirituality. - Amazing Sounds
an excellent player of the Celtic harp, ... pure pleasure, ... a recommended listen. - Rootsworld
the multi-talented instrumentalist successfully manages to paint one elegant and tastefully muted Scandinavian landscape after another.- The Davis Enterprise
I love this CD. Aryeh's soft arrangements are gentle, sweet and moving. This cd is for the common man's soul. So it should reach a lot of people - atnzone magazine
a charismatic harp player ... unreservedly recommended - Bayside Entertainment Distribution
Aryeh Frankfurter's music is beautiful, enchanting, blissful, pure and soothing... an artist of the highest order - Ghirardelli Square Entertainment
Here are some reviews from people who purchased my music from Amazon.com:
5.0 out of 5 stars His music has the soul, all musician should provide to us., December 12, 1999
By Fumihiko Kubota (Tochigi, Japan) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Lest the Harp Strings (Audio CD)
When I listened to private sampler, copy of Frankfurter's harp from my best friend, I've started to order this CD before tape finished. Actually, this is the most beautiful celtic music album, I've ever listened. However, more than that, his music has the soul, which all musician should provide to listener. But, we can rarely get it. I think this CD is the treasure in my life. I want to encourage you to meet this finest album. At least, you can understand why I'm so happy that I'm writing this to you. I hope you will appreciate it, like I did to my friend for his kind introduction.
5.0 out of 5 stars Music for Dreamers and Lovers, December 7, 1999
By A Customer
This review is from: Lest the Harp Strings (Audio CD)
The musical genius of Mr. Frankfurter weaves together the voices of harp, strings, and other instuments, in his own arrangements of classical melodies as well as original compositions. This music evokes what is best in all of us. Great for meditation, massage time, or rocking your toddler to sleep. Better than The Chieftains!
This review is from: Lest the Harp Strings (Audio CD)
I own several of Aryeh's albums. His music is hauntingly beautiful. Of all my albums, his are my favorite. I can listen to them all day, day after day. I am currently purchasing this album for a dear friend and her newborn. I can think of no better music to refresh the mother and calm the infant, allowing them both to enter into a most beautiful musical world.
By E. V. Florey This review is from: Harper's Brew (Audio CD)
I first heard this cd while having a massage. I made certain to find out what it was. As a "nervous nellie" driver, I find that this cd keeps me calm no matter what the circumstances. Listening to it is a great pleasure at any time.
By M. E. Altman "Meg's Human" (SF BAy area, CA United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: The Sound of Sleet (MP3 Download)
What a delight! Outside of The Moon of Wintetime, this is my favorite holiday music - uplifting, joyful, never dull or repetitive. Aryeh's arrangements are refreshingly new, not the same old, same old heard on so many other Christmas CD"s. I know - I have a lot of them... theyre all going in the wastebasket now! With the Celtic harp as well as accompanying himself on the violin, viola, keyed fiddle, classical, stel and electric 12 string guitars, mandolin, lap and hammered duclcimer, pennywhistle, recorder and misc percussion you can't help but be amazed at Aryeh's talent and versatility. He not only performs on all these instruments, he arranged all the traditional music to be somethign new and lovely, somethign you won't want to miss. Recently remastered, the sounds on the CD are full and lush, a treat to the senses. Do yourself a favor and buy this wonderful CD - you won't be disappointed. Give yourslef a gift for the holidays or maybe someone else - great for Christmas and all seasons, just beautiful. What talent!
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful and relaxing, September 8, 2009
By Jamie G (San Francisco, CA) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Serenity (Audio CD)
I love harp music and I love soft relaxing music. This CD combines the two in what is my new favorite CD. I have several CD's by Frankfurter, but this is the most calm and relaxing. I play it at home and in the car. If you just want something to put on at the end of a stressful day and feel the tension melt away, this is it.
5.0 out of 5 stars Like being back at Sather Gate..., July 18, 2005
By Laurie A. Monarres (San Diego, CA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)
This review is from: Celtic Harp O'Carolan's Dream / Music of O'Carolan (Audio CD)
Aryeh Frankfurter's CD's are among the most beautiful that I've ever owned. I've been a fan of his since I knew him as the "Harp Man" playing in the middle of the bustling U.C. Berkeley campus almost 10 years ago. I used to stop whatever I was doing to listen to him when he'd randomly appear, and friends said I was deeply entranced (in a kind of scary yet pleasant way) the whole time he was playing. This CD brings back wonderful memories and creates such a serene mood... I highly recommend it!
5.0 out of 5 stars Beautiful!!!, April 27, 2003
By John Rossi (Somers Point, NJ United States) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)
This review is from: Celtic Harp O'Carolan's Dream / Music of O'Carolan (Audio CD)
I will not try to use any fancy words to describe how I feel about this. I will just say that to me it's great. Some Celtic music, as we all know is loud and boisterous and festive. Some is melancholy and beautiful, some is gentle and peaceful. This album to me falls somewhere in between the second and third "category", leaning a little bit towards the third, with a peaceful relaxing beauty in it that stirs the heart and soul.
Whether I was listening to a slow, dignified-sounding piece or one that was a little faster, but not TOO fast, they gave me a great feeling, a feeling of joy and of awe.
These tunes, as the album title says, were composed originally by the great Irish filidh (harper) and bard Turlough O'Carolan of several centuries ago who was born blind as some tell. The beautiful harp melodies, played with joy and passion and reverence, are accompanied SLIGHTLY sometimes by traditional Celtic instruments.
This album truly succeeds in parting the veil of time and taking you back through the ages. The moment I started listening to it, I could easily imagine myself walking among mist-clad emerald fields and sitting down to a great feast in the castle or great hall of a Celtic lord or clan cheiftain or tribal king, with fair maidens dancing and playing and gay festivity going on all around me, with mighty warriors coming home from battle and being embraced by the women that they love, and being invited to take part in it all. What a JOYOUS and BEAUTIFUL album this is.
Yes, I know I've said a lot, but to me it's worth it. I am only partly Irish, but Ireland is actually where the greatest part of me and my blood and ancestry comes from, so you might say this music is in my blood and heart and soul and is part of me. Even if Ireland isn't in your blood, this album might put her there, or make you think she's there. It really is lovely. The tunes are varied enough that it does not feel like one long song being played over and over again. Do you want to take a journey back in time to a beautiful land rich in legend and lore? This album will be the key that opens the doors of time for you. Enjoy it. You just might learn to love it like I did. Peace, and God bless you and yours, always.
5.0 out of 5 stars I love this CD, March 19, 2006
By Kimberly Arledge "Paganwriter" (Charlotte, NC USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)
This review is from: Celtic Harp O'Carolan's Dream / Music of O'Carolan (Audio CD)
As a Celtic harpist myself, I appreicate great Celtic music and anything with a harp in it. This one is a great example of both. It is enchanting in the original definition of the word; (to attract and move deeply : rouse to ecstatic admiration).
Here are a few letters from listeners:
I congratulate you as the best harpist I have heard in 58 years. - R. Hiersch
This is some of the most beautiful Celtic harp that I have heard ... keep up the good music! - D. Bell
I was quite impressed by your talent and style of playing. Being a full time musician myself, I can appreciate the time and effort you have dedicated in mastering your instrument - Frank Bowker, English Hand Bell Soloist
Pleasure listening to you play ... Best wishes for a long career of it.- Joan Baez Sr.
This wondrous melancholy music lends an articulate language to emotions which have no words - Tracy, New Jersey
I think it is the most beautiful music I've heard - Kim, Woodland, CA
Recently, I heard two cassettes called 'Celtic Legacy' and 'Celtic Odyssey' ... I must tell you I definitely like your music much much more" - Sharon, Burlingame, CA
From the first melody ... I knew this would be wonderful for the clients I do massage therapy for; they relax and the massage flows gracefully. I never tire of listening to it. - Melody, S.F., CA
Your CDs have become my most frequented ones out of my large collections. ... my fondness in your music doesn't subside at all after listening to it time after time. - Perngfen, Amherst, MA
Your CD has been very comforting to me and filled my heart. - Jenny, San Rafael, CA
your music speaks to my soul. Thank you for the beautiful music. - Cynthia from Michigan
We are charmed by your music and have derived many pleasruable hours listening to your CD - Dr. Altman, Colorado
Thank you for the wonderful music - Ralph, Arizona
Your music has eased so many tensions and has helped to set the mood of a romantic evening - Suzanne, California
We were quite taken by your music - Richard, New York
Thank you so much for the moments of quiet peace and reflection you provided with your harp - Martha, Arizona
I have enjoyed, maybe even become addicted to your music. I have listened to it during difficult times. I put it on to calm down from the strain and pain. I have been moved and comforted by it. Tthe sensitivity and grace of your music has provided me with comfort, solace and even courage.- Geri, Pennsylvania
I'd like to say how captivated I was with you and the music which you wove so beautifully.- Elizabeth, San Francisco
Thank you so much for the opportunity to take a peek into musical bliss. ... struck by the calming effect of your music. - Sandi, North Carolina
I was enchanted by your playing. I have been a classical music lover all my life. I feel music as opposed to listening to it. I must say that your music is so very beautiful. It consumed me. - Catherine, Santa Clara California
I purchased your CD and have very much enjoyed your music. I have found your music both soothing and intriguing. - Brad, Utah
being able to listen to your CD really lifted my mood, my mind could retreat into the soothing melodies.-Angela, Santa Barbara, CA
Although I am a dj and very much into house and club music, I found the music performed by Aryeh to be the type of thing that I enjoyed myself.- David, Philadelphia, PA
I have listened to your CD almost daily since I returned from Chicago. I especially like to put it on to lull me to sleep. Thank you for bringing me such pleasure.- Nancy, Chicago, IL
I was so moved by your music. Most people never know the pleasure of expression through one musical instrument, let alone the gift of multiple instruments as you have. I wish you success.- Belinda, Sonoma, CA
Your performance was so real, your technique so impeccable, and your demeanor was so very unassuming and gracious. Since returning to Florida I've played your music for others and continue to enjoy the recording.- Jan Marie, Florida
Your harp playing was greatly admired by all the participants. Thanks again. I will gladly recommend you to anyone who inquires - Gary, Director of Summer Sessions, UC Berkeley
In preparing for a trip to Africa, it was suggested we bring our own music. The only music I would consider playing is yours. It would complete and compliment our wedding day. - Brenda, NV
I purchased your CD and I'm so glad I did. I have been thoroughly enjoying listening to the CD since I've been home.- Nancy, MD
Friends of mine played your CD at dinner one evening, and I was completely taken with it. It is evocative and could be used to set the mood in movies and television programs.- Terrence, Valencia, CA
I recently had the pleasure of hearing your CD. i was very impressed..- Valen, NV
let me say how much I enjoy your music. I love to listen to it when I want to relax or even work.- Kim, San Jose, CA
thanks for slowing down the pace of my day and helping me remember to breathe again- anonymous, Berkeley, CA
I love the peace you bring forth from the mysterious music world. It is exactly what I needed to hear and feel in this time of my life. - anonymous, Berkeley, CA
I have heard Aryeh play at Santa Rosa. It is some of the most beautiful music Ive ever heard. -Marsha, Sebastopol, CA
thank you for the cds. I spent some time listening to both albums. I am surely delighted to have the opporunity to share your wonderful renditions of so many beautiful compositions.- George, Inglewood, CA
We bought one of your cds. I just want to let you know how very much we have enjoyed this wonderful music. I listen to it just about every day and find it to be so soothing. The music is simply beautiful and the calming effect it has is truly great for those busy times. -Anne, NJ
I was fortunate to hear your enchanting music and purchased a CD which I enjoy to this day.- Carole, Redwood City, CA
I am totally enamored with your musicianship and harp.- Ken, Colorado, |
|
|
ABOUT
