Playfully

"In February 2023, Monika Ryan wrote Playfully with the intention of lifting spirits and inspiring playfulness in a world in need of joy. As someone with a playful and philosophical nature, I aimed to invite listeners to explore the concept and practice of "playing fully" — fully having fun, fully tinkering or troubleshooting, fully creating music, fully engaging with others, and approaching life with thoughtful focus and a light heart. To me, playing fully is a multi-dimensional concept that enriches our lives in countless ways.

To bring this concept to life, I enlisted the help of three consummate musicians who embody these ideals in their craft and presence. Steve Einerson on piano, Rene Hart on bass, and Alvester Garnett on drums joined me in recording an ebullient celebration of living fully and playing fully.

My hope is that this music fills listeners with joy and much-needed levity, reminding us all that life is full of opportunities for playfulness and lightness, as well as focused intention and purpose."