George David Kieffer - Encounters with the Moon (2019)

George Kieffer began writing music as a young man. While he built an impressive career in law and civic affairs, he continued to hear music in his head...and to compose. His calling was largely a private one, an emotional respite and a creative outlet. Then, his classic Memorial Day composition, "Arlington," was discovered and debuted by the Gulf Coast Symphony Orchestra in 2014. The following year he added lyrics and "Arlington" was released as a music video with vocals by the famed Los Angeles Master Chorale. His "Fanfare for the Special Olympics" played at the Opening Ceremonies in Los Angeles in 2016.

Which brings us to today --- and a debut album of elegant, lyrical and melodic piano pieces - Encounters with the Moon. The nine original compositions are melodically reminiscent of the French composer Michel Legrand --- but with a distinctly American sensibility. Each tells a story or creates a feeling bound to its title. For instance, "A Winter Song, " warm and introspective, is both a perfect reflection on the season as well a time of life.

Encounters with the Moon announces a new and welcome voice in American music.