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When I picked up Christmas from the Harp, I had high expectations. After all, the album promised the Celestial Harp & Flute duo of DL Turner and Nancy Ruth Holtzman, and the delicate communications between harp and flute can make for the best instrumental seasonal music available, especially for audiences desiring a soothing respite from the frazzled holiday fray. As it turns out, Christmas from the Harp is even better than I thought; in lieu of the harp, Turner provides a warm guitar on several numbers, and that only heightens the already ethereal experience.

There are 13 tracks, but there is nothing unlucky about this album! For the most part, these are ancient carols, although there are some contemporary touches. In fact, two of my favorite cuts are "Home for the Holidays" and "I'll Be Home for Christmas," which boast lilting flute melody lines over a richly robust guitar foundation. "O Come Emmanuel" is similarly effective. For the classic harp/flute combination, "Here We Come A Wassailing" is especially magical, played in a very slow tempo that softens the song considerably, and "Silent Night" is an especially delicate beauty.

Christmas from the Harp provides an excellent backdrop for any holiday event. The music is gentle and reflective. Thank you, DL Turner and Nancy Ruth Holtzman, for a fine Christmas offering.

--Carol Swanson
(Reviewed in 2005)

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From the liner notes:

Featuring:
DL Turner on harp & guitar
Nancy Ruth Holtzman on silver flute

This compilation of Christmas favorites creates an ambiance of unparalleled listening pleasure, truly a classic for your music collection. The enchanting allure of this harp and flute duo has been enjoyed in many prestigious venues throughout southeastern Michigan . . .

From the Web site:

Celestial Harp & Flute, an awe-inspiring musical fantasy, creates a dimension of sheer magic for any formal occasion. This elegant instrumental duo, with DL on harp and Nancy on flute, does not play classical, but instead specializes in original, contemporary new-age music -- flavored with Latin, jazz, classical and Celtic influences -- as well as traditional and easy-listening favorites. The harp and flute are both uniquely outfitted with electric pick-ups, and appropriately amplified, so regardless of venue size and ambient noise levels, it remains the perfect choice for indoor or outdoor events.

Harpist and gifted composer, DL Turner, sweeps across the strings of his instrument to create a powerful and evocative musical poetry -- rich, profound and deeply emotional. With enchanting melodies and alluring counterpoints on silver flute by Nancy Ruth Holtzman, the duo creates a stunning visual and listening experience.

DL Turner also has an impressive resume as a master sound engineer and producer, including sound and stage production for Crosby, Stills and Nash, The Rippingtons, John Denver, and jazz-great Earl Klugh.

Celestial Harp and Flute

Christmas from the Harp

Artist link

Track List