Present Reflections

Dive into the enchanting world of Amy Beach's piano compositions with "Present Reflections," a captivating anthology of her remarkable works set to release on August 1, 2025, under the Stradivarius label. This album is a testament to Beach's extraordinary compositional talent and stylistic versatility, spanning a range of moods and inspirations.

From the delicate and introspective pieces like "Hermit Thrush" to the lively and imaginative "Gavotte Fantastique," Beach's music is a journey through her artistic evolution. The album features notable works such as "Prelude & Fugue, Op. 81," "Fantasia fugata, Op. 87," and the serene "By the Still Waters, Op. 114," each showcasing her mastery of form and expression. The "5 Improvisations, Op. 148" offer a glimpse into her playful and inventive side, with pieces that range from the tranquil to the majestic.

With a duration of 53 minutes, "Present Reflections" is a concise yet profound exploration of Beach's piano repertoire. Whether you're a longtime admirer of classical music or a newcomer to Amy Beach's work, this album promises to be a rewarding and enriching experience. Prepare to be immersed in the timeless beauty and emotional depth of Beach's compositions, as "Present Reflections" brings her piano works to life in a way that is both intimate and profound.

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.