THE EARLY YEARS (1999)

Dulcimer singing duo Barrett and Smith’s first two albums Aeolus (1981) and Music Of The Rolling World (1982) on one CD features original songs, Renaissance, Celtic folk, and English traditional songs and instrumentals.

In celebration of Ruth Barrett and Cyntia Smith's 20-year anniversary of playing music together, the dulcimer singing duo released The Early Years. This recording is a special edition double album CD that includes selections from the duo's first two folk albums, Aeolus and Music of the Rolling World, that feature original songs, Renaissance, Celtic folk, and English traditional songs and instrumentals.

AEOLUS (1981) Ruth Barrett and Cyntia Smith have described their 1981 debut recording as an "inward, winter album." The contemplative pace leads the listener to feel as though one is hearing these songs -- tales really -- around a winter's fire. This album is a collection of traditional British Isles ballads, songs and instrumental pieces, including original songs set to traditional folk melodies. So compelling is the vision of this album, that Music Connection Magazine says, "if you've ever wondered how time travel would feel, listen to the music of Ruth Barrett and Cyntia Smith."

Instrumentation: fretted dulcimer, concertina, flute, cello and recorders

MUSIC OF THE ROLLING WORLD (1982) Ruth Barrett and Cyntia Smith's second release is a timeless collection of original and traditional British Isles folk songs celebrating Spring and Midsummer. The title song reminds us of our connection with the Earth, and our transformations within the cycles of the seasons. This recording is filled with songs of celebration and playful love.

Instrumentation: fretted dulcimer, Renaissance side drum, Celtic harp, fiddle, string bass, guitar, and cello

REVIEWS With their first album these two talented women step forth and establish a strong musical identity. Drawing on Medieval and Renaissance music of the British Isles for materials and inspiration, they have created a musical tapestry of women with their voices, dulcimer and their striking arrangements. --Walnut Valley Occasional

Their entire approach is very artistic, refined and aesthetically elegant. In a world in which traditional notions of beauty are constantly being maligned, the music of Barrett and Smith is undeniably and unapologetically beautiful. This is lovely music, lovingly performed and presented. —By Folk Scene Magazine

This is one of the most beautiful records ever made. —George Winston, Windham Hill Artist Ruth Barrett and Cyntia Smith produce music which faithfully recreates eras so far bygone that it reaches into our psychic depths of myth and imagination, emotionally transporting us in ways nothing on the radio can. —Music Connection Magazine

Few mountain dulcimer players can make the dulcimer sound as classic as can Ruth Barrett and Cyntia Smith. An additional bonus is the superb vocal quality of Ruth and Cyntia. The overall effect is one of classic beauty. Anyone with a love of music should thoroughly enjoy this album. —The Walnut Valley Occasional