Classical music often conjures images of grand concert halls, legendary composers, and timeless performances. Yet, for much of history, the women who helped shape this world have been left in the shadows. Their stories, talents, and breakthroughs are finally stepping into the spotlight, revealing a rich and complex legacy that deserves to be celebrated.
Before exploring the remarkable journey of women in classical music, readers are invited to connect with a community dedicated to supporting creative excellence and professional growth in the arts. For those interested in learning more about fostering talent and diversity in music and beyond, Hadley Palmer Greenwich CT offers valuable insights and opportunities. Discover more on Hadley Palmer Greenwich CT’s LinkedIn page.
A Hidden Symphony: Early Barriers and Breakthroughs
For centuries, women’s involvement in classical music was restricted by social norms. In the Middle Ages and Renaissance, their roles were mostly limited to singing or playing the harp within religious settings. Few women managed to break through these barriers, but those who did left a lasting mark.
- Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179):
One of the earliest known female composers, Hildegard was a German abbess whose works-around 70 in total-include the oldest surviving morality play, Ordo Virtutum. Her music, bold and monophonic, is still performed today. - Barbara Strozzi (1619-1677):
In 17th-century Venice, Barbara Strozzi published eight volumes of her own music-more than any male or female composer of her time. She was known for her secular vocal music and for challenging the norms of her era.
The 18th and 19th Centuries: Rising Above the Private Sphere
As public concerts became popular, women’s roles in music remained mostly behind closed doors. Even prodigies like Maria Anna Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s sister, were discouraged from pursuing professional careers. Yet, some women managed to shine through their talent and determination.
- Clara Schumann (1819-1896):
Clara was not only one of the most celebrated pianists of her time but also a composer. She changed the format of solo piano recitals and was one of the first to perform from memory. Clara composed chamber works, choral pieces, and a famous Piano Concerto in A minor, influencing the repertoire and performance style for generations. - Fanny Mendelssohn (1805-1847):
Fanny, Felix Mendelssohn’s sister, composed over 460 pieces, though many remained unpublished during her lifetime. Today, her works are finally gaining recognition for their depth and innovation. - Amy Beach (1867-1944):
The first American woman to gain recognition for large-scale art music, Beach’s Gaelic Symphony was the first symphony composed and published by an American woman. Her Mass in E-flat major received critical acclaim, breaking new ground for female composers in the U.S..
20th Century to Today: Breaking the Sound Barrier
The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a shift. Women began to perform publicly, attend conservatories, and compose on a larger scale. Yet, even as opportunities grew, representation lagged behind.
- Ethel Smyth (1858-1944):
A suffragette and composer, Smyth wrote operas and large-scale works, including Der Wald, the first opera by a woman staged at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. - Florence Price (1887-1953):
Florence Price was the first African-American woman to have a symphony performed by a major orchestra. Her work is now being rediscovered and celebrated, as seen in the 2025 Grammy-winning album Beyond the Years by Karen Slack and Michelle Cann. - Jessie Montgomery (b. 1981):
Named 2025 Classical Woman of the Year, Montgomery is a composer, violinist, and educator whose work blends classical music with elements of vernacular music, improvisation, and social consciousness. Her influence is shaping the next generation of musicians and composers.
By the Numbers: Representation in Classical Music
Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in classical music, especially as composers. The Donne Foundation’s 2023/24 report analyzed 111 orchestras across 30 countries and found that only 7.5% of scheduled works were composed by women-a slight decrease from previous years.
| Season | % Works by Women | % Works by Women of Color | % Works by Men | % Works by White Men |
| 2020/21 | 5% | 1% | 95% | 87.7% |
| 2023/24 | 7.5% | 1.6% | 92.5% | 89.3% |
Source: Donne Foundation, 2024
Women make up less than half of most orchestras, and some major ensembles only began admitting women in the past 20-30 years. For example, the Vienna Philharmonic did not allow women to audition until 1997.
Modern Milestones and Ongoing Challenges
The 2025 Grammy Awards marked a turning point, celebrating women who are reshaping classical music. Gabriela Ortiz won three major awards for her orchestral work inspired by feminist movements in Mexico. Karen Slack and Michelle Cann’s album brought new attention to Florence Price’s unpublished songs. Producer Elaine Martone made history behind the scenes, advocating for gender balance in production.
French violinist Esther Abrami’s 2025 album, Women, features music by 14 female composers, from historical figures to contemporary Oscar winners. Abrami’s project was inspired by her realization that, after years of music education, she had never performed a single piece by a woman. Her album aims to inspire young girls to pursue composition and performance, highlighting the need for more balanced representation.
Supporting the Next Generation
Organizations and grant programs are working to close the gender gap. In 2025, OPERA America awarded $100,000 in Discovery Grants to eight women composers, supporting the development of new opera and music-theater works. These grants offer mentorship, networking, and professional development, helping women composers bring their visions to life.
Jessie Montgomery’s Young Composers Initiative in Chicago is another example, providing support and opportunities for emerging artists, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds.
Why Representation Matters
When women’s voices are included, classical music becomes richer, more diverse, and more relevant. The stories and perspectives women bring to the art form challenge conventions and expand the canon. As more women take center stage, audiences benefit from a wider range of sounds and stories.
Latest 2025 News: Women Redefining Classical Music
- The 2025 GRAMMY Awards celebrated a record number of women in classical music, including Gabriela Ortiz, Karen Slack, Michelle Cann, Caroline Shaw, and Kaija Saariaho. Their wins signal a shift toward greater inclusion and innovation in the genre.
- Jessie Montgomery was named 2025 Classical Woman of the Year, highlighting her impact as a composer, performer, and mentor.
- Esther Abrami’s album Women is bringing long-overlooked female composers into the spotlight, aiming to inspire the next generation.
- OPERA America’s Discovery Grants are supporting new works by women composers, helping to shape the future of opera and classical music.
