“Frostiana: Seven Country Songs,” the centerpiece of this weekend’s Bainbridge Chorale program, springs from the exquisite poems of Robert Frost, which capture the essence of simple pleasures and rural living. “Songs From the Heart of America,”  highlights the best American composers, Bainbridge Chorale Musical Director Michael Miller Jr. said.

“These works are built around fantastic poetry,” he said. “The music can take them to the place the writer intended.”

The concerts, at 7 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at Grace Episcopal Church, will feature Frostiana and a range of folk, and gospel tunes and even the island premieres of works by well-known 21st century composers Eric Whitacre and Eric Barnum.

The major work, Randall Thompson’s beloved “Frostiana, interprets Robert Frost’s reflections on life, both profound and light-hearted, and provides a glimpse of rural New England life. The piece, almost a dialogue of voice and piano, is accompanied by Anne Pell.

“I think this is my favorite concert of any I’ve ever done,” Miller said, quite a statement, considering his background.

Miller, who is enjoying his first season with the Chorale, has extensive experience in choral conducting. He holds a bachelor’s of music education and master’s of music degree in choral conducting from Winthrop University, Rock Hill, S.C. He has held choral and instrumental teaching positions from elementary to the university level and co-founded and directed the Rock Hill Community Choir.

Miller visited Bloedel Reserve in 2006, falling in love with the island at first sight.

“I have to live here,” he said to himself. He came back the next summer and knew he was “supposed to be here.” In 2007, he sold his house in South Carolina and headed west.

For information about Bainbridge Chorale, visit www.bainbridgechorale.org.