James Viggo Poulsen, known as Jamie Poulsen, is a multifaceted composer and pianist based in Des Moines, Iowa. His work spans orchestral and solo piano music, art songs, and choral compositions. In May 2027, the Des Moines Symphony will feature his Piano Concerto, commissioned by the Symphony in 2002, as part of our Season Finale, Masterworks 7 — Radical Joy.

In July 2025, Poulsen recorded the Heartland Poem album with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios, with conductor Geoffrey Paterson. The title track, Heartland Poem, is a single-movement programmatic work that captures the spirit, vastness and history of the American Heartland. Blending neo-Romanticism with elements of Americana and minimalism, the piece made its debut with the Des Moines Symphony in October 2008.

The album, which also features his Piano Concerto, received the following awards at the Indie Music Channel Awards in Los Angeles (check out the review here!):

  • Album of the Year:Heartland Poem — unanimously selected by the judges, a first in the 14-year history of the Indie Music Channel Awards

  • Best Classical Songwriter: James Viggo Poulsen

  • Best Classical Artist: Robert Thies, piano

  • Best Classical Recording: James Poulsen, Danaë Vlasse, and Robert Thies, producers; John Barrett and Phil Young, engineers

  • Producers of the Year: James Poulsen, Danaë Vlasse, and Robert Thies

Learn more about Jamie and his works at jamesviggopoulsen.com. 

The celebration continues this May when Grammy-nominated pianist Robert Thies, who performs on the album, joins the Des Moines Symphony to perform Poulsen’s Piano Concerto live.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the music of a talented local composer brought to life by a world-class performer. Join us for an unforgettable Season Finale celebrating creativity, artistry and the power of music!

Tickets for Masterworks 7 — Radical Joy are on sale now! Explore the program and purchase your tickets today.

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