EVAN WISH

Gotta Get A Guru

Hollywood Music & Media Awards nominated composer Evan Wish talks about the importance of meeting the right mentors.

At the ripe old age of 19, Evan Wish was burnt out. For 13 years, he'd been put through the rigors of intense musical training, controlled by classical piano teachers and conductors. So he packed up and went to live with Eskimos in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, and Canada-population 2,000. He didn't sit behind a piano for a year. When Wish did play again, he was in a "solemn and self-reflective" place. "For some reason I wanted the piano-and any of the notes I might play-to lead me somewhere," says Wish. "It was almost as though I was praying for help. I let my feelings take me where they wanted to go and the piece wrote itself from beginning to end." With that, Wish's composing career emerged. "I was hooked on this new way of creating music."

This was also the first time Wish worked with a different kind of mentor. Until now, musical mentors guided him, but now he was given spiritual direction. And in Los Angeles, he would complete his mentoring triad.

"I've had three types of mentors-classical music and piano instruction; composition; spiritual," says Wish. In Winnipeg, where Wish was raised, he had two musical mentors at the same time. One taught him advanced classical theory training; the other taught jazz (with pointers on how to write out songs while composing). He left Canada for L.A. when he was accepted at the Dick Grove School of Music. For two and a half years he studied song writing, arranging, orchestrating and conducting for big bands and orchestras in the 20 different styles of contemporary music known worldwide as "The American Sound."

"I also took master classes with many of the top composers, producers and leading artists in the industry, including Bill Conti, Lalo Schifrin, Henry Mancini, Nelson Riddle, Jack Elliot and producer Bones Howe," says Wish. But the high point of musical training came with private instruction from Dr. Yakov Birman of the Saint Petersburg Conservatory in Russia.

Each type of mentor contributed something invaluable, says Wish. "Absorbing my classical professor's solid hand technique instruction has enabled me to perform today from the heart and soul, to 'hear' each note before I play it. My composition mentors taught me to just be the composer I am and not let my head get in the way. My first spiritual advisor? He taught me to trust my heart."

Apparently, it was a winning combination. In 2005, Wish's debut album, "Lullaby of Love," was considered for a GRAMMY award. In 2011, the Hollywood Music in Media Awards nominated the title track from his new album for Best Composition in the Classical/Orchestral category. Both releases were a Top 10 hit on the global charts for three months.

"You can only be a top-notch artist or write beautiful music based on how well you play," says Wish "To get better, you must get out of your comfort zone as much as possible. That's where a mentor can come in-to spur you to greater heights."



- E Talent Showcase

Published on June 3, 2013
What was the quickest time to get a song you have written from the start until you thought, “That’s finished”?
Many, if not most, of my compositions and songs have always come about quickly, especially the “hook” of a piece. This was especially true with my earlier work. Take, for instance, the song “Quietly I say, all things happen,” which I composed in 1983. I went to the piano overflowing with emotion. After awhile, I became completely overwhelmed and had to get up from the bench. Soon I realized I had completed a 13-minute song in one sitting. Within minutes, all the parts where there. I had taped it and still have the original copy. A 6:43-minute version of the song is on my 2010 release, “Forget-me-not, blue.”
What was the longest time to get a song you have written from the start until you thought, “That’s finished”?
The longest time for me so far has been one year. That was the piece “Tara,” written for my daughter. I was not writing at all, as I was totally involved in the do-it-yourself aspects of music promotion and making a living in my business. Life has a way of doing that. Frustrated, I finally realized I needed to do another album. “Tara” got me right back into it. In quick succession, I went on to compose a series of songs, numbers 7, 8, 9, and 10 on the “Forget-me-not, blue” release, all written in that order. Soon the album’s compositions were done.
Do you wait for the moment to come or do you go looking?
I have to have my hands on the piano keys to write. With over 30 years of writing music, I have gone through many different approaches. If I go looking, I will play with a composition for awhile. It may fall to the wayside, or I may be working with a few ideas at a time. When a song starts with inspiration, intuition and that gut feeling I mentioned earlier, there is solid musical power and the music shakes me up. I feel it from the first moment.
What comes first? Lyrics or music? Or is it a separate process?
For me, the lyrics and music always fall together when I write a song. A major part of my work involves only music, and here, I focus on all moving musical parts being lyrical. With both of my music releases, I did not include versions with lyrics being sung with the music. I always think of lyrics, though, when I am recording a piece or performing.
Where do you think creativity comes from?
I feel it is a gift one is born with. My parents were folk dancers and my mother played the violin. I have the same DNA. I started classical studies at a very early age and, when I performed in recitals, was recognized for having a special sensitivity. Being creative involves having the courage to do what one truly feels, the desire to go beyond rational thinking, and to tap into the energy of life.?Has the advent of home-based studios (i.e., being able to record on your own PC, etc.) affected your songwriting in any way?
Absolutely. For a number of years starting in the late 1980s, I was very involved in having the best synthesizers and programming music. I even taught others how to do it. Any random sound could inspire a melody and expand the musical possibilities. I spent endless hours, days and years exploring and recording music I never released. I had studied composition, arranging and orchestration with live musicians and pursued writing for film/TV. My stay in the south of France In the mid-1990s changed all that. There I found I really wanted to be a piano artist. Now, because of the need for clarity, I always take my music to a professional recording studio. At various times over the past 14 years, I have had Peter Granet, a Grammy-nominated engineer, devote his time and care to recording and producing my music and album releases. I still have all my sophisticated equipment for synth work and may just do some in an upcoming release.
Do you have any tips/methods you use to come up with songs?
All I know is that I need to trust what my hands do on the piano. It starts with a yearning that I want to express in my safe zone, and to trust my heart and my intuition. I will not share a song with anyone, no matter who, until I feel it is finished.
What is the best piece of songwriting advice you have ever received?
It was offered by music-school founder Dick Grove. He said, “When I accepted you into my school, I did so because you are a composer and you will always be a composer. Just don’t let your head get in the way. It may take you a few years or many to understand what I mean.”
What songwriters do you admire and why?
I admire all songwriters who can move me, regardless of genre and no matter when the music was composed. I come from a classical background and have studied all types of music, so I hold the bar high for what I think is good. Among my favorite artists are Donnie Hathaway, John Lennon, Paul McCartney, Roger Waters, Bob Marley, Paul Simon, J.J. Kale, Bob Dylan, James Taylor, Neil Diamond, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Sting, Miles Da - Songs and Secrets (UK)

FACTS SHEET: FORGET-ME-NOT, BLUE - Released Oct.1, 2010

1. “ One does not have to be in any particular mood to appreciate its elegance and the way each song easily paints a picture in your mind’s eye.”

MusikReviews.com - (USA) Rating 5 Stars - Nov. 4,11
Music Review by: Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck - Founder http://www.muzikreviews.com/reviews.php?ID=1286

2. ** PICK OF THE WEEK - “ The richness of Wish's compositions is a blessing to the ears. His music's message of peace and harmony reach the heart; his words carry the weight of the world on their shoulders.”

Music Review by: Keith Hannaleck - Founder http://www.williamstown.com/story/36765/Pick-of-the-Week-Evan-Wish.html
in Berkshire County Guide (Connecticut, CT.)

3. “ Your new album is absolutely stunning, easily one of the best piano albums I have received this year!”

Radio Station CKUW - Winnipeg MB University, (CANADA) - Rating 5 Stars - Nov.13, 10
Music review by: John Iverson - Producer/Host of Shades of Classics on CKUW

4. " Forget-Me-Not, Blue is featured on my homepage as New & Exceptional, a beautiful and stirring musical experience. “

Mainly Piano (USA) Rating 5 Stars - Nov. 22, 2010
Music Review by: Kathy Parsons - http://www.mainlypiano.com/Reviews_10/Wish-Forget_Me_Not_Blue.html

5. Finish - 5. Keys and Chords Review - BELGIUM, November 25, 2010
Music Review by: Patrick Van de Wiele http://www.keysandchords.com/cd-evan-wish-forget-me-not-blue.html

6. “ As a whole, the album is pensive, introspective, and intensely personal. It is a musical meditation, a prayer for peace. In his own quiet, small way, Evan Wish has created a legacy of hope and value.”

Rajman Reviews Blogspot - (USA) Rating 5 Stars - Nov. 28,10
Music Review by: Raj Manoharan - http://rajmanreviews.blogspot.com/2010_11_01_archive.html

7. "CD OF THE WEEK"

Radio Rijnwoude - (The Netherlands) - Rating 5 Stars - Week of Nov. 28, 2010
Music Review by: Jelke Bethlehem - http://www.xs4all.nl/~jelkeb/timetrek/thema-2010.html

8. “ In its own way Forget-Me-Not, Blue is a passionate plea from the composer and musician Evan Wish for universal peace and love.”

The Borderland Review - (UK) Dec. 8, 2010
Music Review by: John Peters http://www.mpeters77.freeserve.co.uk/musicwatch2.html#evan

9. “ Evan writes music based on life experiences, and the result is nothing short of stunning! The melodies are beautifully crafted and inspiring, and the playing is deep-rooted in the heartfelt tradition of pianists.

Radio Station CKUW - Winnipeg, MB University, (Canada) - Rating Excellent, 5 Stars - Dec. 21, 2010
Music Reivew by: John Iverson - Zone Music Reporter (USA) member reviews. http://www.zonemusicreporter.com/recording/viewreviews.asp?rvwbrd=1&rvwbrdpstn=4

10. “ From the first wistful notes, and throughout the album to its graceful conclusion, a word that repeatedly came to mind was… Evocative.”

Music & Media Focus - (USA) Rating 5 Stars - Dec. 29, 2010
Music Review by: Michael Diamond - http://michaeldiamondmusic.com/?s=evanwish

11.” It’s hard to pick favorites on an album where every song is exquisitely crafted and displays a level of nstrumental virtuosity as well as masterful composition and arrangement.”

Music & Media Focus - (USA) Short Version - CD Baby album site reviews post. Rating 5 Stars - USA, Dec. 29, 2010
Music Review by: Michael Diamond - http://www.cdbaby.com/AlbumDetails.aspx?AlbumID=evanwish2#

12. “ Canadian contemporary pianist Evan Wish follows his 2005 debut album Lullaby of Love with 10 new tracks featuring his accomplished solo piano playing. Forget-Me-Not, Blue is a beautiful and moving record. “

Epoch Times - Arts and Entertainment (USA) Rating 4.5 Stars - Dec. 31, 2010
Music Review by: Benjamin Louis - http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/content/view/48196/

13. “ NETradio RELAX" Forget-me-not, blue (Evan Wish): Wish 4/4 Music: instrumental, piano, neoclassical.

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Review.
? ??????? NETradio «RELAX» ????????? ?????????? ?? ??????? «Forget-me-not, blue» ?????????? ??????????? ? ???????? ????? ???? (Evan Wish). ?????: Wish 4/4 Music. ??????????: instrumental, piano, neoclassical. ???????????? ???????????: ??????????, ??????? ? ??.

???????????, ????? ??????????? ??????, ???????????? ????????? ??????????? ?????? ????????????. ??????, ??????????? ??????. ????? ????? ???, ???? ?? ??????? ????????? ???? ???????, ??????????? ? ??? ?????????.

NET RADIO - MINSK, (REPUBLIC OF BLEARUS,) - Jan. 17, 2011
Music Review by: Vladimir Miyusov // Producer/Host for Net Radio, Show name “Relax”
http://www.netradio.by/relax/news-and-announcement/1328-evan-wish-forget-me-not-blue-2010.html

14. “ A depth of understanding and eloquence as a pianist is evident here.

Eagle Eye One Magazine - Victoria Island, BC. (CANADA) Feb. 5, 2011
- 19 - 5 Star Reviews - Forget-me-not, blue

This is a wonderful review to receive and the first for the 2010, 2011 radio/media promotion campaign for my new release and led by Ed Bonk of Lazz Promotions.


** PICK OF THE WEEK - USA, November 14, 2010
FORGET-ME-NOT, BLUE - (2010)
iBirkshires.com (Berkshire County Guide to the Community)

Evan Wish - Forget-Me-Not, Blue
On his second studio release Forget-Me-Not, Blue Evan Wish puts together ten tracks of contemporary instrumental new age delight.

Wish is an accomplished concert pianist and obviously well versed in the studio. This is a fine effort punctuated by using quotes from Nobel Prize winners such Gandhi, Mother Theresa and others. The narrations are provided in “What Will Man’s Legacy Be?”.

The piano playing is rooted in classical and transformed into contemporary new age arrangements courtesy of Mr. Wish and some perfectly placed violins. It always seemed right while listening so it is apparent that the artist knew exactly what he was doing prior to heading into the studio to realize his vision.

The thing about solo piano is that although it is simplistic in nature, it does offer beautiful tones and rolling rhythms that engage your senses. The richness of the compositions by Wish is a blessing to the ears. The message he conveys in his music is one of peace and harmony and then he prolifically brings that home to the heart with words that carry the weight of the world on its shoulders. I thought that was a very original touch. Even though it was in one track it was significant enough that it sets this recording apart from others of the same genre.

Forget-Me-Not, Blue is a superb rendering of solo piano work that can be listened to anywhere at any time. One does not have to be in any particular mood to appreciate its elegance and the way each song easily paints a picture in your mind’s eye.

This is highly recommended for those that listen to instrumental music with the piano as the featured instrument and anyone in need of stress relief.

- Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck - MuzikReviews.com Founder

This is a wonderful review to receive and the first for the 2010, 2011 radio/media promotion campaign for my new release and led by Ed Bonk of Lazz Promotions.


** PICK OF THE WEEK - USA, November 14, 2010
FORGET-ME-NOT, BLUE - (2010)
iBirkshires.com (Berkshire County Guide to the Community)

Evan Wish - Forget-Me-Not, Blue
On his second studio release Forget-Me-Not, Blue Evan Wish puts together ten tracks of contemporary instrumental new age delight.

Wish is an accomplished concert pianist and obviously well versed in the studio. This is a fine effort punctuated by using quotes from Nobel Prize winners such Gandhi, Mother Theresa and others. The narrations are provided in “What Will Man’s Legacy Be?”.

The piano playing is rooted in classical and transformed into contemporary new age arrangements courtesy of Mr. Wish and some perfectly placed violins. It always seemed right while listening so it is apparent that the artist knew exactly what he was doing prior to heading into the studio to realize his vision.

The thing about solo piano is that although it is simplistic in nature, it does offer beautiful tones and rolling rhythms that engage your senses. The richness of the compositions by Wish is a blessing to the ears. The message he conveys in his music is one of peace and harmony and then he prolifically brings that home to the heart with words that carry the weight of the world on its shoulders. I thought that was a very original touch. Even though it was in one track it was significant enough that it sets this recording apart from others of the same genre.

Forget-Me-Not, Blue is a superb rendering of solo piano work that can be listened to anywhere at any time. One does not have to be in any particular mood to appreciate its elegance and the way each song easily paints a picture in your mind’s eye.

This is highly recommended for those that listen to instrumental music with the piano as the featured instrument and anyone in need of stress relief.

- Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck - MuzikReviews.com Founder

EVAN WISH
"Forget-me-not, blue"
Wish 4/4 Music

Listening to "Forget-me-not, blue," Contemporary Classical pianist/composer Evan Wish's new album, is like diving into a silvery saltwater pond to watch the interplay of numerous, luminous fish. Each tune, vibrant with strong but finely filtered emotion, shimmers in the psyche as it dances and darts along.

Wish draws on his own experience -- heartbreak, poignancies that occur over time -- to structure the bones of his fish and give them color. Their luminosity comes from the artist's ability to dip into the Sea of Light, the universe's vast creative storehouse, to make them uniquely alive and powerful. The outcome is a captivating musical interlude that's a perfect blend of empathy and refreshment.

So how, exactly, does Wish accomplish this? Well, let's look at some of what he offers.

The opening piece, "Tara," is dedicated to the artist's daughter, who was reared in Canada, far from his California home. Like cherish-the-family songs of old, the joy of reconnecting and unwavering affection permeate the chords and lyrical sonorities of Wish's piano (an amazingly clear Bosendorfer grand). Support from a three-part string section (violin, viola and cello) surrounds the notes with caressive care.

"Quietly I say, all things happen" for solo piano is especially moving. It reflects on a seemingly endless winter bus trip to visit Tara that was so emotionally charged when he was composing it that Wish had to leave the piano for awhile. (On hearing it, I had to remove my headphones for awhile, too.)

Wish's string-enhanced paean for humanity, "What will man's legacy be?" is overlaid with drums, vocal offerings by a Native American chanter and an Israeli singer, and spoken words of wisdom quoted from famous humanitarians. Somehow the disparate elements work to create a satisfying whole that promotes a symbiotic, peace-filled relationship among all people and cultures.

"Forget-me-not, blue," the title track (with strings), is romantic -- on the surface, anyway. Underneath there are hints of the blueness that gathers when one's heart descends into unpredictable depths of yearning or despair. Finding a loving mate is -- yes! -- among the best human experiences. But is it truly all? Is there something more?

Finally, one of my favorites is "Three times to the right, you will find what you are looking for," also with strings. This metaphor for walking around a city block, returning to the point from which you started and knowing that you are imperceptibly changed tickles the fancy about two reasons why we are here -- to ceaselessly grow, to ceaselessly learn who we really are.

Regarding the latter, I have one small bit of advice for this sensitive, compassionate composer who says today's Internet-driven world distracts him from his work. The Sea of Light he plumbs for inspiration contains darkling, sentient seaweed that wants to wrap itself around his creative spirit and stifle his desire to expand. The seaweed is sentient only because his mind, influenced by early-life programming and vague fears, allows it to be so. When Wish comes to terms with this reality and alters his dynamic, the parasitic tentacles will fall away. Then, oh! What rainbowed fish will leap from his silver, silver pond!

One last point: The string arrangements (which are on half of the disc's 10 compositions) are by violist Marcy Vaj. Wish wisely allows her free rein. The result is that his intensely personal focus is tempered by her benign objectivity, a balance that adds yet another dimension to this sterling effort from a truly resonative creator of beauty and connection.

Thank you for sharing with us, Evan Wish!

David L. Gaskill
Retired copy editor
The Morning Call
Allentown, PA
- David L. Gaskill

The strength of New Age music today lies not in its ethereal amiability but in its hard-nosed compositions. Pianist Evan Wish’s debut disc certainly measures up to this newer manifestation of the genre. His sound is more layered than Jim Brinkman’s, less fiery but more quietly intense than Szakcsi’s, less derivative than Ken Pedersen’s. His music is like the flickers of sky experienced as you drive through pale green, birch-filled glades – it shimmers and surprises at almost every turn in the road. There’s an emotional maturity, too, that glows from behind his notes, a confidence that infuses the listener with the surety that, on the spiritual plane, at least, all is well. If it’s hard to single out any one tune for praise, it’s because Wish seems preoccupied with exploring and sharing the multifarious harmonics of his soul. That’s no flaw, certainly - for those who are capable of embracing such gladness-inspired emanations. Besides, one could do worse than be a dappler of birches.

- Newspaper - The Morning Call: Allentown, PA.

Question du Monde

Pianist and composer Evan Wish's latest album Forget- Me- Not- Blue is full of questions. I have to admit I was intrigued by his track titles. They are everyday happenstances that deeply affect our lives, his included. Evan's compositions are usually thought provoking, romantic and a bit more light hearted. Forget-Me-Not-Blue sounds darker, more brooding, more pensive. The music too, seems somewhat anachronistic. It feels like Marseille, 1952 somewhere in the French countryside. Not a bad place to be, but the album's theme is a modern one, that of peace for a suffering planet. Luckily, we are able to take solace in the music of this contemporary composer.

Tara reminds me somewhat of George Gershwin's Summertime. It has that drowsy, easy kind of feel, but with the infusion of a heart break. The song seems to be filled with pain and uncertainty. Evan's piano seems to be asking questions to which no answers are known. As human beings, as caring people, we must still asks the questions.

One of the most poignant songs on the recording is What Will Man's Legacy Be? The strong piano and string musical montage is combined with the spoken word of some of our greatest heroes. No not sports heroes, but peacemakers, healers, and dreamers that have contributed to society through the ages. Mother Theresa, Martin Luther King and Buddha, the original peacemakers. Their words are comforting in an era where knowledge is digitized, downloaded and sterile. The song with its perfunctory drumming and Native American overtones reminded me of an age where a town crier decreed the news of the day.

Two songs combine into one, When Do Miracles Happen? and Quietly I Say, All Things Happen. Both songs are a question and the waiting for the answer experience. Sometimes it seems no matter how hard we wish or how hard we pray the answers to our personal miracles are a long time coming. Sometimes you wonder what you did wrong in life to anger the Gods. It is by faith alone that we persevere and hold out for the miracle.

I Love You or Something Like That has an Old World charm to it with violins, cello and piano. It is slower than a waltz, but still feels like a celebration of passion between two lovers as they swirl about in the parlor. It is the song for the shy smile, the nervous hands and the overflowing heart.

To me the most interesting title is Three Times to the Right, you will find what you are looking for. Whether you are in a big city or a small town, anytime you use these directions you will find yourself right back where you started, only the journey may have changed you just a little. Sometimes these changes are not really noticeable, but if go around the block more than a few times...there you are.

Maybe the album is not so anachronistic as I first thought. Perhaps, taken as a whole, it is music of the dreamers and the peacemakers that never should be forgotten. Forget-Me-Not-Blue seems just right for the occasion. Joining Evan Wish on the album are Marci Vaj on violin, Vahe Hayrikyan on cello and Robin Ross on viola.

Rating: Good +


- reviewed by RJ Lannan on 4/3/2011 - Zone Music Reporter

Canadian contemporary pianist Evan Wish follows his 2005 debut album Lullaby of Love with 10 new tracks featuring his accomplished solo piano playing. On the new album, Wish’s playing is occasionally backed by strings, and spoken words on one piece.

The inspiration for the title comes from an old story about a knight who bent down by a river to pick a flower for his love, only to topple over into the water due to his heavy armor. As he sank under the water, he called out to his lover that she might not forget him.

The record features Evan not only grappling with life’s great questions but also with the day-to-day trials and tribulations of being an adult. The poignant lead-off track, “Tara,” deals with the dialogue between an absent father and his daughter. “When Do Miracles Happen” was inspired by his problems in obtaining a green card and his feelings of rootlessness.

Elsewhere on the album, he deals with more universal problems. On “What Will Man’s Legacy Be” he questions who will stand up today and speak on behalf of humanity down the ages. This piece features Native American chanting and spoken-word samples by the likes of former Nobel Prize winners Mother Theresa, Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King Jr.

Forget-Me-Not, Blue is a beautiful and moving record. Fans of contemporary classical and New Age music should certainly check it out.

Rating: 4.5 / 5 - The Epoch Times - December 30, 2010

Even if the holiday celebrations of Christmas and New Years are behind us now, one contemporary composing pianist has an important message to share having equal relevance to the honorable offerings of peace and harmony we celebrate during the close of one year and the hopeful new beginning of another, arriving just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Evan Wish is a classical trained concert pianist from Encino California with a brand new release titled; Forget-me-not, blue. Incorporating the spoken words of honorable Nobel Peace Prize recipients, and like their principled humanitarian message of peace and hope, Evan Wish gives a heartfelt message of peace and hope, told by his beautiful design in inspiring contemporary instrumental music having a classic touch.
Evan’s contemporary classic Solo Piano debut album titled Lullaby Of Love acquired the number 3 position in global charts, and remained in the Top 10 position for three months and the Top 100 for 6 months, earning a NARAS consideration for a Grammy Nomination for 2005 in the Best New Age Album of the Year category on his original composition. Evan travels and performs concerts in Europe, and does television, film, and theatre production writing, and is an active ASCAP & ACF member, plus you can find his music on Syndicated, Public, and College Radio Stations, along with AOL, Music Choice, Live 365 and numerous others.
Forget-me-not, blue has 10 songs of Contemporary Instrumental bliss with 5 Solo Piano pieces and 5 piano with string ensemble of violin, viola and cello. Together in unison Evan Wish delivers gently contemplative and some inspirational songs while sharing the message of peace and hope in a positive upbeat manner. Recent recognition for Forget-me-not, blue is the # 3 chart success for December 2010, in ZMR’s Top 100 Radio Airplay Chart listings.
In a universal message of harmony in tune with a multitude of people who share the same beliefs and ideals, the song What will man’s legacy be is the heart of the humanitarian side of this project. Here you will find past Nobel Peace Prize recipients incorporated spoken words of Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Theresa, and Martin Luther King are included, along with Native American reciting, an Israeli singer and ethnic percussions.

Forget-me-not, blue is a true achievement after many years as a Canadian born and educated pianist, beginning his first music instructions at age 7, where his gift as a pianist became apparent as a young adult which then led to formal studies at the Conservatory of Music institute in Canada where he won first class honors among many talented competitors.
In addition Evan attended the prestigious Dick Grove School of Music in Los Angeles and received tutoring from top composers in the entertainment industry. His unique gift at an early age was discovered thankfully, and those early formative years were the strong foundation for his composing skills. Today Evan has achieved international recognition while performing worldwide for the past 25 years.
The Solo Piano and strings ensemble songs each retain their individual merits of quality, and Evan performs on a Bosendorfer Grand Piano, widely accepted as a fine tonal instrument which transfers a pianist musical arrangement with warmth and clarity. When touring the Provence region of France, Paris, or the French Riviera, Evan Wish is widely publicized as “The Passion of a Romantic” and you will find his Solo Piano and Instrumental release with ensemble allows one to hear his passionate work as others have discovered for themselves. In recent news, Evan has just returned from Cannes, France while attending the Midem 2011 Music Conference, meeting with music companies and industry leaders, in addition to performing an exclusive solo concert.
While peaceful ambassadors of our past have arrived to us in the form of an ideological leader, an advocate for the poor and a nonviolent civil rights crusade of another, the beautiful Solo Piano and strings instrumental expressions from the heart of Evan Wish constitute a gallant and notable gesture too, arriving in a truly inspiring manner sure to be embraced by all.
- John P. Olsen - Feb. 9, 2011

Hey Evan,
Here at CD Baby, we're constantly listening for great new music and we really think your album Lullaby of Love stands out from the pack.

We're pretty sure a few of our customers will agree, so we'd like to feature it in our next CD Baby New Age Discover Music Newsletter, set to be emailed on January 19.

This is an exciting way for us to share the best independent music that is being made today with people who are hungry for something new.

We have some copies in stock, but we wouldn't mind having a few more. Please send as soon as you can!

When our design team has completed the newsletter, we’ll send you the URL where the newsletter is housed so you can check it out. At that point, you can post the URL into your social networking profiles and email it to your fan list to show them how awesome and well-loved you really are.

Thanks again for making such great music, and feel free to reply with any questions

CD Baby Music Editor - Brad Bush

- Brad Bush - CD Baby Music Editor

I am a Believer

Evan Wish is a man with a dream. He hopes to soothe your spirit with his music. In his own words "Music is a Universal Bridge from the heart to the soul." After you hear the music on his new release Lullaby of Love, you will become an advocate for his gentle, yet uplifting solo piano tunes and your spirit will be consoled, your mind will clear and your heart may soar.

Wish’s music is an amalgam of romantic songs without words and contemporary instrumentals with feather-light classical influences. Although every song shines with its own light, there is a bit of shadow to the tunes as if shrouded in a mystery. It is like that Mona Lisa enigma. What is the story behind the smile? In this case, what are the stories behind the music?

Click on the link and view the review...
The first track and title tune Lullaby of Love begins with a rather temperamental, almost classical intro and like day turning to the night, it evolves into a twinkling piece that fosters dreams of lightness and cloud floating. Based on a poem, the unspoken words are a reminder that love is very to hard find and even harder to sustain. It is a very good start to the album.

Melancholy to the point of abject sadness, “Lovers Dream” is a tune to listen to sparingly. It is not depressing; it is just that Wish has converted his feeling into music so well that it affects the listener without warning. Is the dream to find love or to be loved?

“See A Shooting Star” is a pensive piece with an elusive theme. The melody is captivating as once again the night sky comes to your mind. A cold wind blows over the land as clouds scuttle past the moon and a few bright pinpoints dot the midnight sky. A flash, a streak of light and once again darkness reigns. It sounded as if the candle of a life had been snuffed out and then miraculously relit. Luckily, there is always tomorrow night. I really liked this particular tune the first time I heard it and it became my favorite.

“Out of Love Came Love” has sort of a show tune sound to it. That’s not bad; it just has an interesting melody. A chance encounter, a favorable chemistry of souls and a budding hopefulness. It is the longest track on Lullaby of Love at better than nine minutes. The length leads me to believe that there’s more here than meets the ear.

“I Feel A Change” is a musical sigh of relief. With an overall classical feel to it which is very pleasing, the tune is an expression of a life that is taking time to regroup, to plan a bit and make changes. I liked this one too as it sounded to me like a turning point for Evan. It is peaceful yet a little emotional.

The final track “I Know There Are Rainbows” is a light handed ending for some thoughtful melodies. A smooth jazz flow intersects with a contemplative score that evokes the dreams of the young at heart. It is a tune of promise, not for the pot of gold to be had, but for the miracle that leads to it.

Evan Wish hails from Canada, but has traveled and performed throughout the U.S and Europe and finally lighted in California. He had classical training as a child, but really formalized his unique style under the guidance of the Dick Grove School of Music in L.A. He produced stage music in Paris and studied with Dr. Yakov Birman of the St. Petersburg Conservatory. Of late, he built his studio in Culver City and his compositions began flowing.

Wish’s debut album is an audiophile recording of superb listening. This is grab a glass of wine, teasing fingertips, light the candles and let’s talk about it tomorrow music. Hopeful, soothing and positive.
Rating: Very Good
- R. J. Lannan - New Age Reporter Charts

Kathy wrote a very nice review... click on the link to read.

- Kathy Parsons - Mainly Piano.com

Industry Buzz:
Melodically compelling, heartfelt and honest. Michael Lang, recording jazz pianist with Varese-Sarabande, and heard on the Simpsons.

Of the many Indy records I receive, Evan Wish's record is one of the few that will go into my personal collection. Mark Strictland - Hot/Modern/AC Editor & Dept. Mgr. at All Access Music Group.

It was certainly a pleasure and a very interesting experience having met you at the MIDEM fair in Cannes. Very rarely I have the chance to personally talk to such talented and musically dedicated professionals like you. Thank you for leaving the LULLABY OF LOVE album with me for evaluation. Most people at our company, whom I introduced your CD to, seem very impressed about the artistic expression and the beautiful arrangements embodied.
Global Chrysalis Music Publishing, Germany. Mr. Alexander K. CEO Global Musikverlag.

We will feature it in our next CD Baby New Age Discover Music Newsletter emailed on Jan. 19, 2010.
CD Baby Music Editor - Brad Bush

Mr. Wish has crafted a style bridging New Age and serious Classical music. Bravo to Evan Wish and his Lullaby of Love.

Fans Say:
I love it. I really enjoy this CD. The emotions of the songs are so potent and alive. Kari

Your music has filled me with an enchantment that is rare. Sara

“ B98-FM in Wichita, Kansas, Steve Bauer’s Smooth Jazz program played two cuts this morning so I came to the computer to hunt up the music and hopefully there’s sheet music or a song book available as well.”
V. York: Wichita, Kansas.

I did not think piano solos would move me so deeply… once started listening; I had to listen all the way through the entire album. The artist’s emotional highs and lows come through at different times in different songs, open for all to see. I listen at home, in my car, and at the office. Highly recommended.”
R. Nyznyk, Oxnard. CA.

Hi, I just wanted to say how helpful this CD has been to me. I’ve used it in school for presentations, movement pieces and transition music for monologues and one act plays. My friends always ask me if they can borrow it or burn a copy of their own. Last month was very stressful and so everyday after school I would come home and just listen to your music. It helps me when I want to relax or when I want to stay focused. I usually have to stay up late to study or to finish major assignments so most of the time I am the last one awake. So to break the eerie silence I play this CD and it keeps me going, keeps me awake and keeps me happy. Thank you for this CD. R. Korol: Ontario, Canada.

My husband called KVLU Radio Station. They contacted Evan. He then called us back and gave us the web site. We purchased two CD’s. R. & J. Johnson: Starks, LA.

I went on a 12 hour round trip to pick up a squad car for my police department. On the way back I turned on the local PBS Radio Station KVLU, and the next sound was music from the CD titled “Lullaby of Love” by Evan Wish. And from the first sounds, I became captivated by the passion that was coming from those piano keys. My hypnotic trance lasted for the entire time the music was playing and then came the news. I had a small panic attach because I did not remember the musicians name at first I thought that I might not hear the name again. I wanted so much to order the CD. But as fate would have it the station again announced the CD it had been playing. I got the particulars written down to order this CD. Since the CD arrived, I have played it every night when I turn in for bed. What a great sound!!! Thanks Evan for your God given talents and Passion. F. Brown: St. Cleburne, Texas.

“ Evan Wish is a long time friend of ours and we want to support his cause of producing beautiful music. We wish him continued great success in his future works… he is a hard working musician who deserves a large audience to hear his talent.” H & M Grams: Alberta, Canada

“ I never believed that a song was capable of mustering up such emotions in myself as all the songs on this CD did. I find myself listening to it at every given opportunity. The music holds something that I have not heard from any other musician. I do not know what particularly it is, but there is a passion, which can be heard behind each note. The music is beautiful, simply beautiful.”
J. Petersen: Ontario, Canada.




















- Various