Lee Professor Releases Christmas Album

Monday, November 19, 2007 - by Katie Gee, Lee University
Dr. Richard Sparks
Dr. Richard Sparks

Lee University Associate Professor of telecommunications and pianist, Dr. Richard Sparks, has released his newest album, Christmas Love.

Christmas Love features piano solos "celebrating the spirit of Christmas." The album was inspired by a range of artists including George Winston, Vince Guaraldi, Richard Carpenter, and Paul McCartney. The genres comprising Christmas Love are equally diverse, featuring popular works such as Merry Christmas, Darling; Christmas Time is Here; and Tennessee Christmas.

Dr. Sparks says, "I wanted this collection of carols, modern classics, and the original title song to evoke both the celebration and the solitude of the season."

Dr.

Sparks has previously released four original albums and two collections of smooth jazz and pop piano. However, the style of Christmas Love is markedly different. With the solo acoustic piano and simple arrangements, Dr. Sparks feels he has "found a recording style that feels like home for him as a player."

Dr. Sparks recorded the album in his home studio from July to October 2007. Christmas Love contains one original song, and listeners can look forward to hearing more original pieces by Dr. Sparks in the future.

Christmas Love is available both at the Lee University Campus Bookstore, and online at www.cdbaby.com/ricksparks.


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