On June 11, the Society was under the feminine influence in a programme controversially titled “The Weaker Sex?” given by member Jackie Rose. Featuring women composers through the ages, the earliest recorded was 12th century nun Hildegarde von Bingen who wrote much ethereal music. Fanny Mendelssohn grew up in the shadow of her brother but by the time she died aged 48 had written over 500 works. Clara Schumann nee Wiecke had both the desire and ability to compose fine music. Jackie introduced the audience to the music of other not so well known women composers including Alice Mary Smith and Muriel Herbert. Midlander Dorothy Howell was regarded as the "finest woman composer of her era" and had her tone poem 'Lamia' first performed at the Proms of 1919. Susan Spain Dunk was also British and wrote chamber and orchestral works including the "Overture to Kentish Downs". Amy Marsh Cheyney was Canadian born later marrying one Henry Beach to become one of North America's leading woman composers. She made her performance debut with the Boston Symphony Orchestra playing Chopin's Piano Concerto. Jackie’s most revealing programme concluded with Amy Beach's own Piano Concerto. The programme was another fine example of the talent in the Society and the outcome was an evening that was educational and entertaining and above all enjoyable. Go to our website www.ClassicalMusicKidderminster.org.uk for full details of all our programmeas as well as information about membership, meeting places/times and contact numbers.
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