In The Shadow Of Your Wing
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There is no doubt about Dan Miller‘s admiration and affection for his wife, Joanne. Time and again during our interview he praised her for her compassion and how much she genuinely and actively cares for others. He talked about how protective she is, not just of the people she loves, but of her home–aesthetic, peaceful, without pretense. Her compassion comes into full expression through mentoring women in prison. She nurtures them as they re-emerge into the world, teaching them how to spread their wings and soar. After all that Dan had said in praise of Joanne, the picture that entered my mind was a mama bird protecting her little ones, preparing them for flight, and releasing them to rise to new heights. This piano work was composed in honor of Joanne Miller.
During the month of June, 75 cents from each download of this piano work will be donated to Keza, a non-profit organization dedicated to developing sustainable fashion businesses from women’s cooperatives in Africa. Keza was founded by Joanne’s son, Jared Miller, and they make gorgeous paper-bead necklaces, along with other fine items. My wife Becky owns one and it’s one of her favorite pieces of jewelry. Please consider participating in this special opportunity to give.
New Licensing For Photographers
I am now offering licensing for photographers to use my piano music in their projects.
Here’s a note I received from professional photographer, Jerry Borwick, on his experience with using my solo piano music during his photo viewing sessions and on his portfolio website:
I can honestly say that I have actually increased our sales as a direct result of your music. We use it for our sales sessions with clients who are viewing their portraits. We also use the music on our website slide shows for all their families to see our work. The music really helps to create a mood for our images and puts us over the top when it comes to sales. Without music, I know for a fact that I would not be able to sell as many images as I do. No one has ever directly asked about your music, but we do have it listed so they can contact you if they wish. I like how your songs provide a finishing touch on my work. It is perfect for us.
Be sure to visit the License page on this site where you can see the effect of adding solo piano music to a photo slide show or video.
Framing A Piano Portrait
A piano portrait is a combination of two distinct products. First, I compose a piano work designed to reflect the personality, passions, memories and dreams of the client or their loved one. That is a beautiful and lengthy process that culminates in a custom piano CD for the client.
The customer will have the option of purchasing a second product that is just as important. It serves as proof to the world that THIS person inspired this piano work. It is a custom-framed version of the piano CD, signed by me. Only one person in the world receives this per piano portrait. It must be beautiful, and it must be something the recipient would want to showcase to their guests.
To that end, Becky (my wife) and I have engaged the services of a local custom framer here in Arlington to test the idea on my first edition of my piano album, The Golden Road. We walked into the shop and realized immediately that a Hobby Lobby frame would not have achieved the intended results. We looked at several frames and decided to combine two of them, along with a beautiful, marbled matting. There are two variations, brown and black. The effect is absolutely stunning.
The end product is so engaging, so exquisite, that we are confident it will be a prized family heirloom for generations to come.
The Faith Of A Child
Tonight at bedtime, out of the blue, Will (3 years old) said, “Jesus is behind me.”
I said, “Where?”
He reach behind him and said, “Right there.”
He rolled over and said, “Hi, Jesus. I love you so much.”
Then he reached out his arms and gave him a big hug.
That’s what I’m talking about!
Dancing With Fireflies
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This Piano Portrait is inspired by Laurie Hare. In our interview she admitted to being a bit melancholy at first blush, but as we talked she revealed a side to her that is full of life. Music has a powerful affect on her, and I tried to capture that in a dance. She also mentioned fond memories of chasing fireflies as a child. So in this piano work I envision Laurie on a quiet summer night, approaching the fields, brushing her hands across the tops of the tall grass and surrounded by fireflies. She is so excited by this discovery that she breaks forth in dance as they fly around her. And as she leaves the field, all comes to peace and rest. This is for Laurie.
John Albert Thomas began composing original, melody-based piano works when he was 12 years old. His compositions have the simplicity and thinly-layered delicacy of Mozart, combined with a contemporary sound reminiscent of Enya, George Winston, and Jim Brickman. In 1995, John graduated from Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, with a bachelors degree in Music Theory and Composition. Upon graduation he moved to Memphis, Tennessee where he now lives with his wife, Rebecca, and their four children. John has released several solo piano albums, and continues his work on future projects. 
