"Music happens in spite of us, not because of us. Creativity, seeking an open vessel, exploding outward, gives birth to a myriad of colors, sounds, tastes and textures. How we nurture this creativity is up to us."
These are the words that describe the sentiments of Robert Jennings.
Robert began his formal musical training at the age of six, studying piano with the Royal Conservatory of Music for thirteen years. He then went on to complete the McMaster University Bachelor of Music - Theory and History degree in Ontario, Canada, specializing both in composition and orchestration. Next came the Bachelor of Education programme at the University of Western Ontario, with a major in vocal music.
Robert dedicates his time to teaching, composing and working as a Third Level Reiki Practitioner, with a thriving practice in Toronto.
Reiki involves the channeling of energy, releasing toxins and removing blockages, physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually, through choreographed, slow-moving, non-invasive hand placements.
Reiki treatments involve energy transference, linking the practitioner with the head, torso, and the back of the client. Healing travels to the rest of the body through meridians or "energy highways."
Robert has sought to combine healing modalities with music, creating an atmosphere that would encourage reflection, promote peace, and restore health.
Robert shares, "I am constantly researching, trying to unlock more doors. It is essential to decode information pertaining to the roots of healing, and the improvement of the state of the human condition. I have found that music is the vehicle through which I can share my discoveries with the world."
Robert's newest CD, the fifteen track - 72 minute "Passages", can be described as: Intimate. Subtle. Understated. Listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of sound, tranquil landscapes waiting to be discovered.
Refreshingly original instrumental pieces are characterized by soaring melodies, lush orchestrations, and sweeping chromaticism.
Instrumentation includes solo piano, and combinations of harp, guitar, woodwinds, bells, harpsichord, and strings.
Robert's CD "Inner Sanctuary" (where he uses the pseudonym "Zhu") is a collection of orchestral, and solo piano works, that gently carries listeners to restful places, easing away tensions and stresses of the day, a blanket wrap of soothing music.
"Inner Sanctuary" was specifically created to complement the work of those immersed in the healing arts, combining a soundscape that would assist in the removal of blockages, with energy work. "Inner Sanctuary" has received glowing reviews internationally, and is recommended by those with Reiki, Massage Therapy, Chiropractic, and Yoga practices and clinics.
"Invitation", is Robert's intimate collection of piano works, that combine beautiful melodies, with Impressionistic chord structures reminiscent of Debussy, Ravel, and early Gershwin.
More Classical in nature than Robert's other works, "Invitation" beckons the listener to sit back, put their feet up, taking time out for a peaceful escape, an enjoyable musical odyssey.
Robert's CD "Inner Sanctuary II" (sequel to "Inner Sanctuary" - again using the pseudonym "Zhu") is a 72 - minute collection of soothing, original music. Over two hundred instruments, including strings and woodwinds, peppered with solo piano, beckon listeners to pause, reflect, and dream.
Fifteen hauntingly beautiful melodies accompany sweeping, yet tranquil orchestrations, guiding listeners towards their own unique personal oasis.
The "Journeys" CD (Zhu) is a musical carpet ride that transports listeners to locations throughout the world, each piece an open door that entices the listener to explore exotic environments.
