Amy Marcy Beach (1867 - 1944) was a pioneering woman composer at a time when women were barely considered by music publishers. She has been acclaimed to be the first important American woman composer. As a child Amy was allowed rather than encouraged to further her obvious musical talent. She wrote in a mature and virtuosic style for piano with use of chromaticism, fine melodic lines, and Impressionistic styles. This is her "Fire-Flies" set for flute quartet by John Gibson. (3 flutes and alto flute with an alternate 4th flute part for alto). This piece is also a part of a group of pieces called Buggy Delights also available on Sheet Music Press.

This quirky, rhythmic piano piece from 'Children's Corner' works really well for small ensemble - the constant interplay between consonance and dissonance is really heightened. Difficult standard, but very playable by a good group.