Craig Bohmler

Craig Bohmler is an acclaimed American composer known for his wide-ranging work in musical theatre, opera, and classical music. With a career spanning several decades, Bohmler has developed a reputation for composing richly melodic, dramatically compelling scores that bridge traditional and contemporary styles.

Born in Houston, Texas, Bohmler studied piano and composition at the University of Houston and later earned a master’s degree in composition from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. His training in both classical and musical theatre traditions shaped a versatile voice that has allowed him to move fluidly between genres.

Bohmler’s best-known work includes the musical Gunmetal Blues, co-written with lyricist Marion Adler and book writer Scott Wentworth, a noir-inspired piece that has been widely produced across the U.S. and internationally. He is also the composer of Enter the Guardsman, a chamber musical that was nominated for the Olivier Award for Best New Musical in London and won top honors at the International Musical of the Year competition in Denmark.

In addition to his musical theatre work, Bohmler has composed several operas, including Riders of the Purple Sage (2017), a Western opera based on Zane Grey’s novel, with a libretto by Steven Mark Kohn. Commissioned by Arizona Opera, it was praised for its cinematic sweep and emotional depth, and it marked a significant addition to the contemporary American opera repertoire.

Bohmler has also written or arranged numerous works for symphony orchestras, choral ensembles, and educational theatre programs. His music has been performed by companies such as Arizona Opera, Houston Grand Opera, and TheatreWorks Silicon Valley, among others.

Craig Bohmler continues to be a vibrant and respected voice in American music, admired for his craftsmanship, storytelling, and ability to create works that connect deeply with audiences across genres and generations.