Composer Peter Boyer Is Obsessed with America's History — and Contributing to Its Musical Legacy

<p>With composition titles like <em>In the Cause of the Free</em>, <em>Ellis Island: The Dream of America</em>, and <em>Balance of Power</em>, it's easy to tell <a href="https://propulsivemusic.com/"><u>Peter Boyer</u></a> has more than a casual interest in American history. In fact, it's something that's inspired him throughout his career.</p> <p>But the Grammy Award-nominated composer-conductor isn't merely looking to memorialize America's past — he wants his music to connect with people today, and make a meaningful contribution to the musical legacy of the United States.</p> <p>"There is an American sound in an orchestra that a composer who is American can attempt to deliver," Boyer says on the latest episode of the <em>Classical Post</em> podcast.</p> <p>"There is a tradition or a legacy that one can hear in the music of composers who preceded me that I think is evident in [my] music. Hopefully there's a tangible connection to that American symphonic tradition that comes through when one hears this music. That is the hope."</p> <p>Although Boyer speaks with bashful humility about his work, it's clear his desire to connect with today's listeners has become a reality. One of the most frequently performed American orchestral composers, Boyer's music has been performed more than 600 times by 200-plus orchestras around the world. <em>Ellis Islan</em>d alone has received 250 performances, including a filmed concert broadcast nationwide on PBS's <em>Great Performances</em> series.</p> <p>And his latest album for Naxos American Classics, <a href="https://naxos.lnk.to/Boyer"><u><em>Peter Boyer: Balance of Power</em></u></a>, represents a new contribution to the American symphonic tradition. Featuring Boyer on the podium leading the London Symphony Orchestra, the album showcases eight of his most recent orchestral works, including <em>Fanfare for Tomorrow</em>, which was commissioned for President Biden's 2021 inauguration.</p> <p>In this episode, we talk more about the new Naxos album and what it takes for Boyer to pu