Brian Balmages (b. 1975) is a prolific American composer who has produced a steady stream of new works that have consistently their way into the repertoire at all levels, from elementary school bands to professional orchestras. His music has been performed all over the country and the world. He wrote Pele in 2004. It is a horn feature, originally written for and commissioned by Jerry Peel, then the professor of horn at the University of Miami. Balmages’s publisher, FJH, provides a program note:
Pele was inspired by the Hawaiian Goddess of Fire (or Volcano Goddess) by the same name. She was passionate, volatile, and capricious. This lyrical work is an emotional rollercoaster in which we experience a glimpse of her personality — from her quiet moments to her most volatile.
Brian Balmages’s website, including bio and extensive works list with many recordings.
Brian Balmages profile at James Madison University, his alma mater (class of 1998).
See Pele live:
Finally, please visit FJH Music (the special Canzonique section) for more on Pele.