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Peet Morrison is an Australian composer and cellist of Hungarian decent. His compositional style is thus influenced strongly by central European masters - Martinu, Korngold and Bartok to name a few - yet his context for writing is rooted in a very Australian passion for telling story, often in relation to socially-potent issues present in contemporary times. He believes in the composer's obligation to comment, not just entertain.

His output ranges from solo through chamber and orchestral works, and soon a commissioned first opera. His method for most new works still sits within tradional parameters of structural, melodic, rhythmic and harmonic integrity, yet flows in a clear interplay between tension and release. In some compositions this can be reflected in quite an abstract manner across these parameters, whilst at other times a more tonal and calmer result emerges. Nevertheless, in almost all cases with his compositions, the process of writing proves most natural when approached in a linear fashion, akin to playing with Lego - all directions and combinations possible along the way and where the totality emerges in the process. The end result is sometimes fun, oftentimes serious, and he is unafraid to reference contemporary culture. From a playability perspective, his music is adaptable to the needs of the assignment. That said, the more advanced works are best described as performer-challenging whilst not listener-alienating.

Having the luxury of being a professional musician in a quality orchestra as well as several smaller ensembles, allows him to be in close contact with other compositional resonances and performance guidances. He is acutely in tune with the listener as he performs, which also has relevance to the resonance he seeks through composition.

As a composer, Peet's music has been performed on the BBC, Danish Radio and ABC Radio. Live performances of works have been presented in England, USA, Australia, Denmark, Sweden, Finland. He is simultaneously a member of the Danish Composer's Association and an Associate Artist at AMC.

His digital album - I Thought I Saw Your Face - was favourably reviewed by limelight: https://limelight-arts.com.au/reviews/i-thought-i-saw-your-face-peet-morrison/

It consists of predominantly Australian works for solo cello around the theme of depression and mental illness, and parallels his interest in socially important themes.

Peet Højby Morrison — current to April 2025