Manhattan

Donald Macleod explores the 1930s when, now in her sixties, Amy Beach moves to Manhattan.

This week, Donald Macleod explores the life and music of one of the most original, distinctive and gifted American musicians of the early 20th century - Amy Beach. Donald discovers how Beach railed against the prejudices of her time to become arguably the first truly 'American' voice to emerge from a continent still struggling to break free from the shackles of the European classical tradition.

We will explore her journey from the tranquil meadows of New England to her headline-grabbing early successes as a virtuoso piano prodigy in Boston - alongside a burning childhood desire to compose. We'll hear from her collection of large-scale symphonic works, including her Piano Concerto, and her 'Gaelic' Symphony, and we’ll discover which of her songs was such a hit that its proceeds paid for a summer property for the Beach family!

We'll also hear about Beach’s attachment to the MacDowell Colony - a remarkable artists' retreat amidst the woodlands of New Hampshire, and her work to help the careers of young musicians.

In Friday’s programme, Donald finds Amy Beach, now well into her sixties, in Manhattan, as she embarks on a remarkable final chapter in her musical life, producing some of her most distinctive music.

3 Piano pieces, Op. 128 (I. Scherzino)
Martina Frezzotti, piano

Ses Yeux, Op. 66
Philip Martin, piano

Piano Trio in A minor, Op. 150
Neave Trio

Cabildo, Op. 149 “Ah, love is a jasmine vine”
Nicole Cabell, soprano
Will Liverman, baritone
Jonathan King, piano
Lady Jess, violin
Tahirah Whittington, cello

Canticle of the Sun
Yale Schola Cantorum
David Hill

Scottish Legend, Op. 54, No 1
Alan Feinberg, piano

Producer: Steven Rajam/ Sam Phillips