An Introduction to Women Composers

Music is constantly evolving, changing styles over the years as new composers and influences arise. Looking back, we can trace out six distinct musical eras-and many notable women, although largely overshadowed by more famous men, have made important contributions to the art of composition throughout the centuries.

An Introduction to Women Composers is a historical resource that highlights seven key female figures whose work has had widespread influence across the following musical studies:

- Religious music in medieval times

- Artistic freedom during the Renaissance

- Elaborate operas of the baroque period

- Structured melodies during the classical movement

- Expressive chamber music in the romantic era

- Unique modern music in the most recent century

Each segment provides an overview of an era's musical history and includes a review of influences, a composer biography with an original black-and-white portrait, listening guidelines, and a musical map for one composition. Women composers were for many years discouraged from publishing, but many insisted on creating regardless-and their work offers great insight into how music has changed over time.

Start investigating the long and fascinating history of Western music-and women's contributions-connecting everything from ancient religious chants to the billboard hits we hear today.

Karen L. Dunn has made a career of teaching music. After graduating from Sacramento State College, she earned her master's degree in education from La Verne University.

Now retired, Dunn continues her musical endeavors through singing with the Sacramento Women's Choir and playing piano in a performing trio called the Middle Sisters.