Baritone Robert Peavler takes the opportunity with this recording to offer a program by American composers of the next generation from Charles Ives and John Duke (to name but two) carrying the torch forward as the new modern composers of art song. Kirke Mechem (b.1925) and Dominick Argento (b.1927) are a generation older than the other two composers included—Thomas Pasatieri (b.1945) and Timothy Hoekman (b.1954). Robert Peavler is on the voice faculty at Eastern Michigan University. An active recitalist and soloist, Dr. Peavler consistently programs and champions new works by American art song composers. His collaborator, Arlene Shrut, is on the faculty of Juilliard and Manhattan School of Music and is an admired keyboard performer.
"... To communicate a "heartland" sensibility, a singer must have a strong clear voice but not be so operatic that he overpowers the material. Baritone Robert Peavier strikes just the right balance. He may be a baritone, but he has the litheness of a tenor. In the witty ’It Was a Lover and Her Lad’ by Timothy Hoekman, he is joined by soprano Alissa Deeter for a sprightly duet."
Jack Sullivan - American Record Guide - November/December 2012
