BEGINNINGS - the premiere 2-CD collector's edition of early Fernando Ortega recordings. Included in this comprehensive compilation are selections from Fernando's first four albums produced by RPI (Randolf Productions, Inc.). MEDITATIONS OF THE HEART (1993) MEDITATIONS OF THE HEART - ENCORE (1994) HYMNS & MEDITATIONS (1994) NIGHT OF YOUR RETURN (1996) Classically trained in piano at the University of New Mexico, Fernando comes from a family of weavers and farmers who, for eight generations, have lived in Chimayo, a small village on the western slopes of the Sangre de Cristo Mountatins, north of Santa Fe. His music celebrates this heritage in songs that are filled with spiritual longing and a deep reverence for his Lord. Fernando's music unites virtuoso piano skills with tender, authentic vocals. The rich accompaniment of cello, accordion and strings allow the songs to resonate with a simple yet sensitive quality that gently touches every listener's heart.