Beach, Amy – “Fire-Flies” – [Arabesque Recordings]

Cousin Mary   8/29/2016   A Library, CD

Amy Beach (1867-1944) was an American pianist and composer and as such, is said to be the first woman to have had success with large-scale music works. Here we hear music for solo piano – no 12-tone from this 20th century classical composer, but strongly reminiscent of Chopin, Liszt, and romantic and impressionistic pieces. Lovingly and expertly played by pianist Joanne Polk. A bit of bombast here and there, but overall very enjoyable.