Track Listing

1. Thanksgiving
2. Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head
3. Joy
4. Prelude
5. Carol of the Bells
6. Night, Pt. 1: Snow
7. Night, Pt. 2: Midnight
8. Night, Pt. 3: Minstrels
9. Variations on the Kanon by Pachelbel
10. Holly and the Ivy
11. Some Children See Him
12. Peace

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #30163 in Music
• Released on: 1990-10-25
• Number of discs: 1

Amazon.com essential recording
December holds the distinction of single-handedly putting Windham Hill on the map and being the new age album most likely to find its way into music collections of all ilk. In spite of being relentlessly overplayed during the holidays, the solo piano recording has aged quite well. Winston shapes holiday war-horses and original compositions into a captivating contemporary statement. His spare, understated style captures the feel of the dark season, employing ample resonance to evoke a reflective spaciousness. The album's straightforward simplicity conveys both the celebration and quietude that characterize the best of the Yuletide spirit. --Richard Price

Customer Reviews

George Winston's Best
In the early 80's I first heard the song "Thanksgiving" on the Windham Hill 1982 or '84 Sampler (my memory escapes me right now). When I noticed who the artist was and the album from which the song was selected, I went and bought the cassette. I actually played this cassette until it could not longer play (thank goodness for CDs). So after I thoroughly wore out my cassette version I purchased the CD.

The great thing about this album, for me, is I never get tired of it. I have listened to these songs for the last 18 years and they always sound as if I am listening to them for the first time. The CD has a winter feel to it; quiet, peaceful, soothing, melodic, and clear. There is an inclusion of classical favorites such as Bach's "Joy," the traditional version of "Jesus, Jesus Rest Your Head," and the traditional version of "Carol of the Bells," etc.

The music itself is very graceful and well defined. It is great music to have in the background when you read or study. I guess that is why I have enjoyed this music for so long. Actually, this CD also works well for the Christmas season or for listening all year round. George Winston is a wonderful piano player. His playing is filled with careful touch, strong emotional texture, and a style that grows on you every time you listen. I believe this is his best work produced, I highly recommend it, especially if you love classical, piano, and instrumental music.

Beautifully, contemplative music!
A friend introduced me to George Winston several years ago with this very cd. Am I ever glad she did, as it opened a new world of music for me! I enjoy all the Windham Hill artists. I love Winstons' "Carole of the Bells," "Joy," and "Thanksgiving" arrangements. This entire cd is so beautifully contemplative and although it has Christmas music on it, it is a cd that I enjoy year round. Everyone that I introduce to it, has the same reaction as I initially did...."It's beautiful." I have since collected several other George Winston releases, but I believe this is my all time favorite. Pure, classic GW. It's certainly a "must-have" for the Holiday season! If you enjoy solo piano, then you're sure to enjoy "December."

Time to pull it out again!
About a month ago I got excited at the prospect of fall coming.The reason? I can listen to "December" for the next 6 months! This cd makes me incredibly contemplative, sad(in a good way) and happy... I listen to it at work, home and especially in the car-it's perfect for a long drive through the Northeastern U.S. in fall and winter. I feel the feelings I'm sure George was trying to evoke. It moves me like no other piece of music I own.The landscapes speak to me.The people around come alive with once invisible souls-all because of this beautiful piano album. I highly recommend it-my love of the "album" was passed down from my mother-who "lent" me her tape which I finally gave back a year later after buying my own copy. Get ready for some serious reflection...and goosebumps!