South African-born composer and pianist Ralston Van Der Schyff releases one tender musical number, his original single entitled A Doll’s Ballet. Even years after the song’s release, dated July 11, 2021, the track sends across both timelessness and echoes of the fervent essence: nostalgia, hope, and simple sentiment.
Wholly self-composed, recorded, and produced, A Doll’s Ballet is a deeply personal work that combines Gospel, Jazz, and Classical influences. The very unorthodox recording process for Van Der Schyff involves keeping the recorder on, capturing spontaneous musical moments with very little editing, and this ultimately translates into a raw and intimate listening experience. The melody and harmonies really give off an air of longing, much like many felt during the height of the pandemic when the track was first created.
Inspired solely by his own mind, soul, and emotions, Van Der Schyff paints a vivid soundscape reminiscent of an attic world of toys-a metaphor for memories and moments locked in time. The pacing and the structure of the song make this piece quite the journey, one that is highlighted for its poignancy and expressiveness.
Currently touring in Shanghai, China, Van Der Schyff remains committed to solo piano performances, including those at The Harrods Tea Rooms. Given his commitment to pure musical expression, this is one piece that will continue to engage audiences worldwide.
Ralston Van Der Schyff summarizes the inspiration behind it with such simplicity and clarity: “Longing for the days when we were once loved.”
[Read the original article here: Nostalgia, Hope And Simple Sentiment]