Grand Mass in E Flat Major

Experience the grandeur of Amy Beach's "Grand Mass in E Flat Major," a historic and powerful choral work that stands as a testament to the composer's genius. This album, released in 1995, is a live recording from the Cathedral Church of Saint Paul in Boston, Massachusetts, capturing the essence of a live performance with stunning clarity.

Amy Beach, a pioneering figure in American music, composed this mass, her Opus 5, which was the first mass composed by an American woman. The work is a monumental achievement, showcasing Beach's mastery of choral writing and her deep understanding of sacred music. The "Grand Mass in E Flat Major" is a journey through the traditional liturgical text, each movement beautifully crafted to evoke the spiritual and musical depth of the Mass.

The album features the Stow Festival Chorus and Orchestra, conducted by Margot Law, with soloists Martha Remington, Ray Bauwens, and others, delivering a performance that is both reverent and inspiring. The recording, engineered by Brad Michels of Qarion Productions, captures the acoustic richness of the Cathedral Church of Saint Paul, providing an immersive listening experience.

With a duration of approximately one hour and seven minutes, this album is a comprehensive exploration of Beach's compositional prowess. The tracklist includes all the traditional sections of the Mass: Kyrie, Gloria, Laudamus Te, Qui Tollis, Quoniam, Graduale, Credo, Sanctus, Benedictus, and Agnus Dei. Each movement is a testament to Beach's ability to blend vocal and instrumental forces to create a cohesive and uplifting musical experience.

"Grand Mass in E Flat Major" is not just a recording; it is a historical document that celebrates the contributions of Amy Beach to the world of classical music. The album is a must-listen for fans of choral music, chamber music, and those interested in the rich tapestry of American musical heritage.

Amy Beach, born Amy Marcy Cheney, was a pioneering American composer and pianist who broke barriers in the male-dominated world of classical music. As a child prodigy, she made her public debut as a pianist at just sixteen, showcasing her remarkable talent and setting the stage for a groundbreaking career. Beach is renowned for her "Gaelic" Symphony, the first symphony composed and published by an American woman, premiered by the Boston Symphony Orchestra in 1896. Her Piano Concerto, completed in 1900, further cemented her status as a trailblazer. Beach's compositions, which span chamber music and orchestral works, are celebrated for their emotional depth and technical brilliance. Throughout her life, she performed extensively, earning acclaim both in the United States and internationally, particularly in Germany. Her legacy endures as a testament to her innovative spirit and enduring musical contributions.