Like Fanny Mendelssohn, Amy Beach had to overcome social barriers that existed during their time. Her musical prowess and persistence paid of; she became known as the first major American female composer and one of the leading composers of the New England School. Amy Beach composed some of the most beautiful and captivating music for the piano.

Music Education in the News: Sad news. The International Association for Jazz Education (IAJE) has filed for bankruptcy. Visit their website to read a letter from Chuck Owen, President of the IAJE Board.

This Day in Music History: 1833 - Composer Johannes Brahms was born in Hamburg, Germany.