The purpose of this study is to present various insights into Frank Ticheli's song cycle, An American Dream. Frank Ticheli is an American composer, born in 1958, mainly known for his music for concert band and wind ensemble. He has also composed various orchestral pieces, which are very important. This essay provides a general overview of all his orchestral oeuvre until 2010. It then focuses on the genesis and creation of his orchestral song cycle An American Dream. Deep study of the score and preparation for performance and recording were used to give insights into this work, which is subtitled: A Symphony of Songs for Soprano and Orchestra. Direct communication with Frank Ticheli proved most helpful. The essay also refers to performance issues and assessment of the work for performance with various types of orchestras. Part of this essay is the inclusion of the recording of An American Dream, which took place in November 2009, at the Gusman Hall, University of Miami, Frost Symphony Orchestra, Zoe Zeniodi, conductor. Leilah Dione Ezra is the soprano on the recording.