Simple Gifts from The 5 Browns

On the Village Cock-a-Doodle Moo! CD, we have a wonderful version of “Simple Gifts” with is a traditional Quaker song.  It is such a soothing melody, I love it.

This video is another version of the same song, a bit more upbeat, and is played by 5 young talented pianists who are all siblings.  And YES, they all play at the same time.  I was fortunate enough to see them in concert here in Lakeland, and they are truly astounding to watch.  Each has their own personality – and the way the move emotionally with the music is fully from within. 

Actually, my FAVORITE piece they played in the concert was when the three girls all sat at the same piano and played a piece written specifically for that arrangement.  Their arms overlapped each other, and they looked like a six armed octopus, but the music was just overwhelmingly fabulous.  I have not been able to find that on video to share with you. 

It was fascinating to hear about their childhood, and how they grew up around music, and each independently choosing to focus on the piano – and how they were able to get 5 pianos in their house to practice on.  A local piano store had to play host to their practicing so they could learn to all play together in the same room.

Needless to say, if you get a chance to watch The 5 Browns in concert – DO IT!  You can find out more, and keep up with their events at www.the5browns.com .