Released in 1995 Rhythm Quest Vol. 2 is Ward's second volume of original flute compositions. Recorded in different places that are sacred to Ward this collection continues where the first volume Rhythm Quest left off... Below is a review of the recording by a major music review magazine. For a recording with ONLY the flute, this is Wards finest contribution.
Critics Review
Heartsong Review Fall/WINTER No.17
This collection's gorgeous purity comes from its simplicity. With only Ward and his flute to touch us, we are allowed to form a deep connection with him and his instrument, to hear his "voice". Each piece is a delicately noble creation that showcases his mastery of his instrument and the finer points of melody and structure along with the great ability to transpose his connection to the Great Spirit.
**+Recommended.
A Rose is a Rose...? -It is my intent with this song to honor the female, and all aspects of the female energy. From the serious/protective nurturer to the playful/loving being. This song was inspired by a special person whose life I have been privileged to have shared a small part of. She is a Tribute to humankind. I am grateful.
The Bear and the Butterfly - A grumpy old bear walking through a meadow is comforted by a playful butterfly. The two soon become unlikely friends and a dance that only nature can conceive results.
Young Tree Song Old Tree Song - I recorded these two songs separate although they are actually one, just as in nature they are one, although separate. An old tree in a sacred place stoops with age. Growing up under and supporting the old one is a younger tree, vital, it winds it's way through the old boughs to combine the two. They stand strongly together. I'm reminded to support/respect elders...
Ancestral Gift -This song was recorded, unrehearsed, first time, first take. I had to wait till the tape was finished to learn to play it! The soul has many echoes...
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Gathering -This song was composed to honor a special gathering of flute players that I have been honored to attend these past years. In the spirit of all gatherings of people who meet to share, I offer this song.
Following Generations -Our children are our future, they are tomorrow's lights. I have met some very special young people on my path. They are learning good ways and I know they will pass them on. I wish to honor all young people- and those to come, with this song.
Crow Feather -While walking down the street one very -very- windy day, I noticed a crow feather lying on the ground, unmoving. I remember thinking, how sad, such a beautiful feather was stuck to the pavement, because the wind would have blown it away otherwise. I bent down to rescue it, and to my surprise it wasn't stuck at all! I slipped the feather into the bindings of my flute. I knew, even before I started to play, that a song would come. This song was what came out...
The Hunt -An Elk posing in a high place is stalked by a Mountain Lion. The Lion is stealth, the Elk is stamina. The drama continues...
Wind's Song -The Native American Flute is also known as the "Love flute". It was/is used to propose marriage. What a beautiful way to express that sacred commitment! This song is such a song...
No Sharp Corners -I once tried to explain this song to a friend, the only way I could describe it was it had "no sharp corners". It stuck.
Siyotanka Wicasa (Flute Man) -The "Flutemakers" I have met seem to be a special breed. They bring these special instruments into this world, in such a beautiful way. I wish to honor them and their creations with this song.
Ur-bane-ite -I have spent most of my life in the city. This song mirrors my frustration with being an urbanite. The definition of bane in the dictionary is -(1. a cause of death or ruin. (2. a deadly poison. Hmmm...
Flute Circle -A small group of tender hearts gather to share and expose their selves in an old way. A circle of music/spirit.
Wing Dance -The winged ones. They call out in song and movement to those who would listen and watch. This is not the first song inspired by these wondrous creatures and I hope it won't be the last.
The Pallet Flute -Flutes made from old crates,
wooden pallets, even fence posts. I've seen and played many kinds. I learned that it's not expensive wood or fancy craftsmanship that makes the instrument, it's the spirit within it. Sound familiar? This song came from a simple pallet wood flute. I am honored to have played it!
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