THE STORY BEHIND: Peter Boyer's "Rhapsody in Red, White & Blue"

Title: Rhapsody in Red, White & Blue

Composer: Peter Boyer (1970- )

Last time performed by the Rhode Island Philharmonic: This is a RI Philharmonic Orchestra premiere. In addition to a solo piano, this piece is scored for piccolo, two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, four horns, three trumpets, three trombones, tuba, timpani, percussion, harp and strings.

The Story: After enjoying a successful premiere by the Utah Symphony in June 2023, Rhapsody in Red, White & Blue, went on a nationwide tour. By June of 2027, it will have been performed by professional orchestras in all 50 states, including a recording by the London Symphony Orchestra. No concerto has ever reached such a milestone in such a short period of time.
         
This evening’s soloist, Jeffrey Biegel, commissioned Rhode Island composer Peter Boyer to compose a new work in celebration of the centennial of George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue. “Having long admired Jeffrey Biegel’s virtuoso piano technique, beautiful sound, and his indefatigable efforts to bring new American music into the world,” said Boyer as he launched into the project, “I’m delighted that he has invited me to be part of [this]. Though of course it’s daunting for any American composer to attempt to compose a work which might stand alongside Gershwin’s iconic Rhapsody in Blue, Jeffrey’s confidence and boundless energy embolden me to give it my best efforts. No doubt it will be a thrilling challenge to undertake the creation of this new work.”
         
“In addition to my love for the classic repertoire,” added Biegel, “much of my life has been devoted to cultivating new music for piano and orchestra by American composers.” After conceiving the idea for the Rhapsody in Red, White & Blue project, Boyer, whose music has become widely respected in America and abroad, seemed a natural choice for composer. “His musical vocabulary and sensibilities are perfect for this. My hope is to offer orchestras the opportunity to herald the birth of a new work while celebrating the anniversary of an American classic.”

Program Notes by Jamie Allen © 2024 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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