Feminist in the Concert Hall
Celebrating an African American Musician-Activist
Two days of events are celebrating the 150th birthday of Maud Cuney-Hare (1874-1936) who lived and worked in the Boston for more than 30 years, to elevate and preserve the work of African Americans in classical and traditional music. The presentations will made...
Composers to Discover! and BOTD: Zenobia Powell Perry (1908-2004)
Whaaaa??? Another composer named Perry? And also a long neglected African-American woman? In these pages you've read a lot about Julia Perry whose Centennial is being celebrated this year, but today let's recognize another Perry! Zenobia Powell Perry was born on...
WPA News Digest – September 30, 2024
Exciting News!! Composer Jeanine Tesori has become the first woman composer to open a season for the Metropolitan Opera in its 141 years of operation. Her opera Grounded was given a gala premiere, starring mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo on September 23,as announced in...
WPA News Digest – September 23, 2024
So much going on as the fall season of concerts and events is in full swing! On September 27–28, Washington University in St. Louis will host a symposium on the music and work of Julia Perry. The event will include guest lectures, a roundtable, and a concert of...
“Is This America?” The Fannie Lou Hamer Opera Premieres
In Boston, a remarkable new opera is being premiered this weekend. “Is This America? The Fannie Lou Hamer Story,” composed by Mary D. Watkins, with a libretto by Watkins and Cerise Jacobs. In this interview that aired on Boston’s WBUR, Mary Watkins describes how she...
Announcing the 1874 Project – Six Women Composers to be Commissioned
Today’s author, Carolyn Watson is an Australian-born conductor who has been active in the US since 2013. She serves as Director of Orchestras at the University of Illinois while continuing to enjoy an active freelance career internationally. 2024 marks the 150th...