Célébration Amy Beach

Amy Beach (1867-1944), an American composer who is still little known in Geneva, left behind an impressive body of work. A pianist since childhood, the musician had to give up playing her instrument when she married, under pressure from her husband, who nevertheless agreed to let her compose.

Her most grandiose works include the Grande Messe for choir and orchestra, the symphony entitled Symphonie Gaélique, and the piano concerto. It was above all for this instrument that she wrote; whether as a soloist (a concerto is dedicated to it) or as part of smaller ensembles, notably quintets, the piano always plays the virtuoso part in Amy Beach's work. An eclectic composer, she also left a large catalogue of chamber music.

ClassiCosy and its artists are offering a new discovery of her work. Thanks to her very first opuses, stemming from vocal music, and her trio Opus 150, we can appreciate throughout the concert her path towards great maturity in her writing.