Beach, A.: Cabildo / Hermit Thrush at Eve / Give Me Not Love / In the Twilight

Album Description

Dive into the enchanting world of Amy Beach's "Cabildo / Hermit Thrush at Eve / Give Me Not Love / In the Twilight," a captivating collection of chamber music that showcases the composer's unique voice and mastery of the genre. Released in 1995 under the Delos label, this album presents a rich tapestry of musical compositions that span various moods and styles, all united by Beach's distinctive touch.

At the heart of the album is "Cabildo," Op. 149, a genuine chamber opera that stands out for its intimate scoring. Featuring six singers, a speaker, a small chorus, and a piano trio, this opera offers a deeply personal and engaging listening experience. The opera's narrative unfolds through a series of evocative scenes, each bringing to life the characters and their stories with vivid musical detail.

Complementing the opera are several standout pieces that highlight Beach's versatility and depth as a composer. "Hermit Thrush at Eve," Op. 92, No. 1, is a serene and reflective work that captures the tranquility of twilight. "Give Me Not Love," with lyrics by Florence Earle Coates, is a poignant exploration of longing and desire. "In the Twilight," Op. 85, adds another layer of introspection, while the Shakespeare-inspired "O Mistress Mine" from "3 Shakespeare Songs," Op. 37, showcases Beach's ability to set text to music with sensitivity and grace.

The album also includes a selection of songs from "4 Songs," Op. 1, and "3 Songs," Op. 11, each offering a glimpse into Beach's early compositional style and her enduring fascination with poetry and literature. From the delicate "Jeune fille et jeune fleur" to the haunting "Dark Is the Night," these songs reveal the composer's ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through her music.

Conducted by Ransom Wilson, this recording features the original cast from the professional premiere of "Cabildo" at Lincoln Center, ensuring an authentic and historically significant performance. The album's comprehensive notes, provided by Beach authority Adrienne Block, offer valuable insights into the composer's life and work, making this a rich and rewarding listening experience for both newcomers and longtime admirers of Amy Beach's music.

1 jan 1995

1995 Delos

About Amy Beach

Amy Beach, born Amy Marcy Cheney, was a pioneering American composer and pianist who shattered barriers in the male-dominated world of classical music. As a child prodigy, she began her career as a pianist, making her debut at the age of sixteen to great acclaim. However, it is her compositions that have left an indelible mark on the musical landscape. Beach was the first successful American female composer of large-scale art music, and her "Gaelic" Symphony, premiered by the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 1896, was a groundbreaking achievement as the first symphony composed and published by an American woman. Her works, including the renowned Piano Quintet, showcase her unique voice and mastery of her craft. Beach's legacy is one of resilience and innovation, as she succeeded without the benefit of European training and paved the way for future generations of female composers. Her music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of American musical heritage.