Discover the Talents of 10 Female Classical Composers
Music History
Nov 21, 2022
Female classical composers have made significant contributions to the world of classical music, but all too often, their achievements go unrecognized. We believe it's important to celebrate and recognize the talents and contributions of these women. In this article, we will introduce you to 10 female classical composers you should know. From Hildegard von Bingen to Joan Tower, these women have made a lasting impact on the classical genre and continue to inspire and delight audiences all over the world. Whether you are a classical music enthusiast looking to discover new composers or a beginner interested in taking piano lessons in Los Angeles, these are the names you need to know.
As a music school in Los Angeles, we are always looking for ways to highlight the achievements and contributions of female classical composers. While these women may not always get the recognition they deserve, their music has had a lasting impact on the classical genre and continues to inspire and delight audiences all over the world. If you're interested in learning more about these talented composers or taking piano lessons in Los Angeles, keep reading to discover 10 female classical composers you should know.
- Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179) was a German composer, writer, and mystic who is considered one of the greatest composers of the medieval era. She is known for her liturgical music and hymns, which were written in Latin and inspired by her spiritual visions.
- Fanny Mendelssohn (1805-1847) was a German composer and pianist who was the sister of composer Felix Mendelssohn. Despite being a talented musician in her own right, Fanny's musical career was overshadowed by her brother's and she was often discouraged from composing. However, she left behind a small but impressive body of work, including songs, piano pieces, and chamber music.
- Clara Schumann (1819-1896) was a German composer and pianist who was married to composer Robert Schumann. She was a child prodigy and began composing at a young age, eventually becoming one of the most renowned pianists of her time. In addition to her piano works, Clara Schumann composed songs and chamber music, and was a champion of the music of her husband and other contemporary composers.
- Ethel Smyth (1858-1944) was an English composer and suffragette who was known for her operas and vocal works. She was a member of the Women's Social and Political Union and used her music to promote the suffragette movement. In addition to her activism, Smyth was a talented composer whose works were celebrated by audiences and critics alike.
- Amy Beach (1867-1944) was an American composer and pianist who was the first successful female composer of large-scale art music in the United States. She composed a wide range of works, including piano music, songs, and an opera, and was highly regarded by her contemporaries.
- Lili Boulanger (1893-1918) was a French composer and the first woman to win the Prix de Rome, a prestigious award for classical composers. Despite her short life, Boulanger left behind a small but impressive body of work, including choral music, songs, and piano pieces.
- Rebecca Clarke (1886-1979) was an English composer and violist who was known for her chamber music and songs. She was a pioneering figure in the field of classical music and paved the way for future female composers.
- Nadia Boulanger (1887-1979) was a French composer and music teacher who had a profound impact on the classical music world. She was a world-renowned and highly sought-after mentor to many notable musicians and composers, including Aaron Copland and Philip Glass, and her compositions were admired.
- Germaine Tailleferre (1892-1983) was a French composer and one of the only female members of the group of composers known as Les Six. She composed a wide range of works, including opera, ballet, and chamber music, and was highly regarded by her contemporaries.
- Joan Tower (born 1938) is an American composer and pianist who is known for her innovative and distinctive musical style. Born in New York City in 1938, Tower began studying music at an early age and went on to study at the University of Colorado and Columbia University. She has composed a wide range of works, including orchestral music, chamber music, and solo piano pieces, and has received numerous awards and accolades for her compositions. Tower is also known for her work as a conductor and has led performances of her music with major orchestras all over the world. In addition to her composing career, Tower is a dedicated music educator and has held faculty positions at several universities.
Did you enjoy this article? You might want to read our articles about the role of music composers in society, the greatest living pianists, and the influence of folk music on composers!
