Veteran Pianist Teams Up With Acclaimed Jazz Musicians on Melody-Driven Song About Compassion
New Track From ‘Rick Maltese & Friends Vol. 2’ Encourages Listeners to Recognize the Impact of Small Gestures
TORONTO — Toronto pianist, composer, and songwriter Rick Maltese has released his latest single, “Just Like an Angel,” a reflective song centered on compassion, generosity, and the lasting impact of small acts of kindness.
The track, taken from his album Rick Maltese & Friends Vol. 2, combines Maltese’s melodic songwriting with performances from an accomplished jazz trio, delivering a message that emphasizes how simple gestures can create meaningful change in people’s lives.
The release arrives at a time when conversations around community support and social connection continue to shape public discussion, with Maltese using music as a way to highlight the importance of empathy and human connection.
A Song Built Around Everyday Acts of Compassion
At the core of “Just Like an Angel” is the belief that kindness does not require grand actions. Maltese’s lyrics focus on the power of everyday moments, suggesting that even a smile, a conversation, or a simple gesture can provide support to someone in need.
“Just a smile, just a word, just a look or an open door, can save a soul from wanting more,” Maltese sings, before delivering the song’s central message: “Even when you don’t have much to share, you’re just like an angel when you show you care.”
Maltese has described the song as a reminder that generosity can have an impact far beyond the original moment, comparing small acts of kindness to a ripple effect that continues outward.
The composition reflects his view that music can serve as an expression of care and encouragement, particularly during periods when compassion and community support may feel increasingly important.
Collaboration With Acclaimed Jazz Musicians
For the recording, Maltese brought together a group of respected musicians with extensive backgrounds across jazz and contemporary music.
The track features bassist George Koller, a National Jazz Award Bassist of the Year recipient whose career includes appearances on more than 1,600 albums and collaborations with artists such as Peter Gabriel, Loreena McKennitt, and Holly Cole.
Drummer Ben Wittman also contributes to the recording. The composer and producer has worked with internationally recognized artists including Sting, Paul Simon, and Rosanne Cash, while frequently collaborating with his Grammy-nominated wife, Laila Biali.
The lineup is completed by Bill McBirnie, an internationally recognized jazz and Latin flute performer who was personally selected by Sir James Galway as his Resident Jazz Flute Specialist.
Toronto Studio Sessions Create a Natural Musical Connection
The recording sessions took place at Kuhl Muzik in Toronto, where Maltese and the musicians developed a strong creative connection throughout the process.
The collaboration between Wittman and Koller brought additional chemistry to the track, with the pair sharing a history of performing alongside prominent vocalists, including Holly Cole and Measha Brueggergosman.
Maltese said the sessions reflected a sense of spontaneity and collaboration, with musicians responding naturally to each other’s performances.
The recording also features a Bechstein grand piano with personal significance for Maltese, connecting back to his previous performances at Musideum, the arts-focused space located at Toronto’s 401 Richmond West.
A Career Shaped by Multiple Musical Traditions
Maltese brings decades of experience as a pianist, arranger, composer, and music director. His work spans classical, jazz, blues, pop, world, and folk influences.
Throughout his career, he has contributed to musical theatre productions, choir performances, and live events, including serving as Musical Director at Toronto’s Royal York Hotel.
His approach to composition reflects a deep appreciation for melody and structure, drawing inspiration from composers such as J.S. Bach. Maltese is also developing a planned classical project titled Cantata for Peace, continuing his exploration of music with broader emotional and social themes.
“Just Like an Angel” represents another chapter in Maltese’s ongoing creative journey, combining skilled musicianship with a message focused on compassion and connection. Through the new single, the Toronto composer continues to use music as a way to encourage listeners to recognize the significance of even the smallest acts of kindness.