Beach: Variations on Balkan Themes Op. 60, Maria Funerale, Cadenza, Scottish Legend Op. 54 No. 1, etc.

Amy Beach's captivating album, Beach: Variations on Balkan Themes Op. 60, Maria Funerale, Cadenza, Scottish Legend Op. 54 No. 1, etc., is a masterful collection of chamber music pieces that showcase her exceptional compositional skill. Released on 7 April 2008 by Arabesque Recordings, this album features a range of works, including the renowned Variations on Balkan Themes Op. 60, which was first published in 1906.

This iconic piece, composed in 1904, is a testament to Amy Beach's innovative spirit and her ability to craft complex, beautiful music. The album's duration of 1 hour and 7 minutes takes the listener on a journey through a diverse array of emotions and themes, from the sombre Marcia Funerale to the lively Gavotte fantastique Op. 54, No. 2.

Performed by the talented Joanne Polk, this album is a must-listen for fans of chamber music and those interested in exploring the works of this pioneering American composer. With its unique blend of technical skill and emotional depth, Beach: Variations on Balkan Themes Op. 60, Maria Funerale, Cadenza, Scottish Legend Op. 54 No. 1, etc. is an album that will resonate with audiences and leave a lasting impression. Amy Beach's music is a celebration of her legacy as a composer and pianist, and this album is a wonderful tribute to her enduring talent.

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.