A Song in My Heart - Including CD with Original Musical Score

Alejandra Stanford is born into a privileged bicultural family in Minneapolis of 1902. Growing up, she and her artistic family experience the intermingling of American, Mexican, and European cultural influences, as well as national events that challenge their lives; yet, Alejandra finds music is the perfect expression of her own artistic inclinations, emotions, and ambitions. As a young pianist and budding composer, she is affected by Minnesota's musical pioneers and resolves to become an orchestral conductor despite the obstacles. Alejandra travels to the great cities of the world in pursuit of her dreams. Along the way, she will meet two men who are her match in ideals and intellect. Ultimately, it is the passion for music and love which guide, inspire, and determine Alejandra's destiny.History and fiction converge impeccably in this historical novel infused with music, art, and romance, creating a compelling first installment to the A Song in My Heart trilogy.

Roma Calatayud-Stocks is an author and songwriter. With bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Minnesota, and later further studies at MacPhail Center for music, she recorded her original compositions. In 1998, Roma released her debut album Carnival of Life. In 2002, Calatayud-Stocks was the creator, artistic director, and producer of Latin Renaissance, a fundraiser for the Minnesota Orchestra Volunteer Association at Orchestra Hall in Minneapolis. She continued producing cultural events, and took additional classes in fiction writing at the University of St. Thomas.
A Song in My Heart is Calatayud-Stocks's debut novel. It is the literary and musical realization of many years of study, research, composition, and artistry. Composed by Roma Calatayud-Stocks and arranged by Chan Poling, the accompanying musical score features fourteen songs and instrumentals in popular twentieth-century musical styles with classical, jazz, and Latin influences.