American composer Ira Randall Thompson (1899-1984) is often named one of America's ten best composers. In spite of such a subjective approach, Thompson's music has appeal for a wide and diverse array of listeners. In instrumental music, his Second Symphony stands out. For sacred choral music, little approaches the somber yet joyous Alleluia. Testament of Freedom is passionately patriotic while Frostiana honors the great American poet in a unique and gracious manner. Besides these, Thompson wrote operas, chamber pieces, and other works.