Women in Classical Music

Women in Classical Music

If you look at the listings of the major orchestras in America you will see two things in common; very few of them are programming major pieces by women composers, and almost none have a woman on the podium. Despite the abundance of wonderful compositions by women, the world of classical music has been, for centuries, a man’s world.

WXXI Classical is committed to help turn things around by celebrating the achievements of women: from Hildegarde of Bingen to Jennifer Higdon, performing, conducting, composing and more. You'll hear women highlighted every day, not just during Women's History Month in March, but year round. It’s time.

There's lots more content online, from blog posts to videos, resources for research, a celebration of Women's Suffrage and even some Classics for Kids audio features and Quizzes. Please explore the site to find out more.

Learn more about:

Marin Alsop, conductor

Amy Beach, composer

Hildegard von Bingen, composer & mystic

Margaret Bonds, pianist, composer & teacher

Lili & Nadia Boulanger, musicians & teacher

Francesca Caccini, lutenist & composer

Sarah Caldwell, conductor

Valerie Capers, pianist, composer & educator

Wendy Carlos, composer

Cecile Chaminade, composer

Rebecca Clarke, violist & composer

Valerie Coleman, flute & founder of the Imani Winds