Peter Boyer

Celebrations Overture, Titanic, Three Olympians, The Phoenix, Ghosts Of Troy, New Beginnings

THIRTY-two-year-old Boyer has been influenced and mentored by the likes of fellow Americans Elmer Bernstein and John Corigliano.

And like many modern composers, he has learned to combine the formality of the symphony hall with the accessibility of film and television.

So this 69-minute CD exemplifies the composer's talents for the richly-varied media he chooses to support.

And it is sure to please. For these offerings clearly demonstrate the cinematic and theatrical flair that Boyer possesses.

The earliest piece (1995) takes the tone-poem Titanic as its inspiration and, to put it in context, it came three years before the Hollywood blockbuster.

The Celebration Overture is a bright, joyous work and about as uncomplicated as good music gets.

The London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the composer, is on fine form, especially the string section in Three Olympians.

This has been described by Boyer as a ''good deal of fun'' and it's hard to regard it in any other way.

There is great versatility in the composer's style and movie fans will derive great pleasure from the easy-listening flavour of all the pieces on offer.

Koch International Classics 3-7523-2

Sibelius, Symphony No 5

THE City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra with principal conductor, Sakari Oramo, brings some fresh ideas to this piece and there's plenty to savour.

The CBSO combines the symphony with the popular Karelia Suite, Pohjola's Daughter and The Bard.

All good stuff and 67 minutes of top value.

Erato 8573 85822-2