Sioux City Journal - Sioux City, IA
Published November 25, 2005

Pianist presents Christmas songs in third release

By Joanne Fox

While many people are just beginning to think about the Christmas season, Joe Curry of Elk Point, S.D., has been singing and rehearsing holiday carols since September 2004. Curry, who has played piano since age 6, released his first CD of self-composed tunes, "Milestone," in 1999 as he graduated from Elk Point-Jefferson High School. His follow-up CD, "In Focus" came after his graduation from the University of Minnesota-Minneapolis in 2003.

In August, he moved to South Bend, Ind., to work on a two-year MBA program at the University of Notre Dame. Amid his studies he released as a Christmas album, "Midnight Clear." He spent a good part of the summer arranging and recording the music.

"It was a fun project," he admitted, "but at times, it was difficult to envision songs like 'Frosty the Snowman' during the intense July heat."

Curry made the move to the Hoosier state after working two years at a public relations and marketing agency in the Minneapolis area. Classes with the Fighting Irish are going well, he said. "South Bend's metro area's population of 250,000 is a good size," he said. "I've found grad school is all about time management between classes, clubs, fun, football and looking for that summer internship. Yes, already!"

While chestnuts might not be roasting over an open fire at this moment, Curry's new CD includes piano arrangements of well-loved Christmas songs. This CD differs from the other two, because for the first time, Curry recorded with other musicians, who provided light instrumental accompaniment.

This is "piano music that paints a picture," he said. "Listening to the CD, you will be able to envision a warm, crackling fire melting away the winter weather and a blanket of crisp, white snow outside," Curry added. "I really had a great time recording this project."

"The Christmas Song" is among the offerings on the CD, in addition to sacred ones like "O Come All Ye Faithful" and "Joy to the World." "The CD has quiet, tender moments and energetic, upbeat numbers," Curry said. "Christmas is my favorite time of the year and the music always puts me in a good mood."

Curry will perform his music at a CD release concert tonight at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Elk Point, the place where he debuted his compositions five years ago. The free concert is at 7:30 p.m. at the church, 605 E. Main St. Autographed CDs and sheet music will be available for purchase. Curry's CDs are also available for sale in Sioux City at the Sioux City Art Center, Carol's Corner and his Web site, www.joecurry.com.