Beach: Piano Music Vol. 2 (johnson)

Kirsten Johnson (piano)

Beach: Variations on Balkan Themes, Op. 60, Children’s Album, Op. 36, Transcription of Richard Strauss’ ‘Serenade’, Scottish Legend, Op. 54, No. 1, Gavotte fantastique, Op. 54, No. 2, Eskimos - Four Characteristic Pieces, Op. 64, Moderato

Amy Beach (1867-1944) was a prolific composer of piano music, ranging from miniatures to large-scale pieces. She is one of the great woman composers of all time. This compact disc contains one of her most important works, Variations on Balkan Themes, op. 60, as well as all of the piano pieces composed at the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th. The brilliant Serenade shows her mastery of virtuoso piano writing; Eskimos, op. 64 displays her ability to create delightful vignettes. Moderato and Children’s Album, op. 36 are world première recordings. Kirsten Johnson continues her series on the complete works of Amy Beach with this beautifully presented disc. Exquisite attention to detail, lovely tone colours and an amazing technique make this a recording not to miss.