This one especially means a lot to me. I wrote the original a very long time ago and the track means a lot. It is very simplistic and yet one of my better pieces (IMO).

Thanks,
~Blaze

I'm a bit worried this won't do well in MAC8 due to the simplicity (And the fact that Winterwind-NS, Simon-F, JoshHunsaker, SmartPoetic, and others are submitting!). Your review is very reassuring however. I like to think that I packed all mmy emotions into this one, despite it's simplistic form. I just hope that's enough.

It is great to recieve a review from a good musician here. I really enjoy some of your music!

Thanks for the review,
~Blaze

I believe the answer to that question lies in the expressiveness of the piano itself. It truly has an incredible range in both register and dynamics, allowing it to communicate such a wide breadth of emotions. The ability to combine both melody and harmony simultaneously alone makes it a great option for sad songs. As to why I myself chose it? I'm a pianist and stink at orchestration. :P

I've looked through quite a few of the submissions, actually. I wouldn't say they all sound alike, either. While there may be quite a few solo piano pieces, they are still distinct in the utilized dynamics, registers, tempo, rhythyms, harmonies, chord progressions, and melodies. While this does sound similar in the fact that it is sad, I wouldn't go so far as to say it sounds the same as every other song. I tried to make it original with the way I combined the traits I listed a moment ago. The fact that many submissions are piano solos does not make them all "sound like this". Within the piano, there is an infinite number of ways to create distinctive sounds, styles, and harmonies. Compare a Bach fugue to David Lanz's new age piano solos. There is a very noticable difference setting them apart, though they both be piano songs and sometimes both "sad". I personally wouldn't mind judging dozens of piano solos so long as there is some degree of variation in style. Judging a hundred different songs with the same chord progression in, say, the nocturne form? That may become too monotonous for me. However, I will respect your opinions. After all, I guess your not attacking me or anything. :P This is just my opinion on the matter.

Whatever the case may be, I am glad that you enjoyed the song. I am quite relieved to hear that this may have a decent chance of winning, whether it be luck or not.

Thank you for the review,
~Blaze

"Awesomely dramatic and dramatically awesome"...That is the coolest phrase I've heard in a while. XD

Thanks for the review!
~Blaze

What is wrong with crying? I truly believe it is a strength to be able to admittedly cry due to beauty.

I am a Christian as well and am not offended in the least. I find it very inspiring that you write such things rather than submitting to politcal-correctness. Being politacally correct is rediculous. (Forget "Happy Holidays", I'll say "Merry Christmas" if I feel like it! Whether the person decides to have a merry Christmas or celebrate it is their choice. I'm simply spreading the joy! :D) But I digress...I never would have imagined this music describing the death of Jesus. That is a profound image indeed. Your grandmother also sounds like a wonderful women; you are blessed to have known her. I'm sure she is in a better place by the way you described her. :)

Thank you...Your review has touched me.
~Blaze