Album Notes

"Like a magician, she caught the shadowy apparitions of her brain and tossed them..."

"She seemed herself a part of the high March Sky"
--Susan Dickinson, May 18, 1886


The musical genius of Ian Ferrin and Dorothy Collins has manifested itself in their latest CD, a compilation of Emily Dickenson's poems set to original tunes composed by Ferrin and skillfully delivered by Collins. The blend of Dickenson's timeless words with contemporary music is both an innovative and appreciated concept that allows the beautiful collision of artists of the past and present. Ferrin's music is emotional, unique and well suited to the laments of the famous poet. His tunes lend a melodic new perspective to Dickenson's words. Collin's vocal delivery of the material is otherworldly, due well in part to her amazing voice. She brings Emily to life as she conveys a myriad of nuances and vibrant emotions that allow the listener to believe they are actually hearing Dickenson speak her words aloud. Track 10 on the CD, a superb duet by Collins and Ferrin, is exceptionally moving and a personal favorite. This CD is highly recommended to anyone who is a fan of Emily Dickenson or simply appreciates a beautifully executed musical endeavor.

--Rachel Anise Wegter
Professor, Speech Communication Department, California State University, Long Beach


I received the cd today. listened to it on my way to work. it is awesome. You two really brought out the beauty in her work. Thank you
--Jamie, Saxonburg, PA



Regarding our choice of song titles:
Emily Dickinson did not title any of her poems. Today, when her poems are published, the first line if generally the title. We, The Dorian Muse, have chosen to give these songs titles which reflect our musical intrepretations of Emily's untitled poems. Consider these the titles to our music, not Emily's words. -- Dorothy and Ian



Dorothy Collins has been singing as long as she can remember. A keen appreciation of music has involved in many different styles, including classical, gospel, alternative and jazz.

She performes in a variety of Southern California venues, in a variety of styles, and her work has been received with enthusiasm and respect. Distinguished by immaculate pitch and phrasing, and the warm and beautiful texture of her voice, it is obvious that for her, singing is as natural as breathing.

This project has been a wonderful opportunity for her to explore the poetry of Emily Dickinson, and hopefully create a moving and appropriate tapestry that weaves Dickinson's images with melody and music.

Ian Ferrin was born, raised and graduated from college in Arcata, CA (Humboldt State) - arguably the most liberal town in the United States. The think he misses the most about the remote northern California coast are the long walks in the local California coastal redwoods.

After struggling for years as a semi-pro musician and songwriter, Ian gave it all up about six years ago. He went to nursing school - and currently works as a Registered Nurse in an intensive care unit.

After putting music aside, he discovered, he can not, not do music. In October of 2000 he approached his friend Dorothy with the idea of doing an album of songs using Emily Dickinson poems as lyrics. The project started with this simple concept but swiftly grew into a labor of love. How could it not with some of the most wonderful
words in the universe for lyrics?

This is fifth album Ian has produced. Ian and his wife Denise live Angels Camp, CA - Home of the Jumping Frog Contest of Calaveras County.