The Conservatoire National de Musique, established in 1795, was the first French higher education institution open to young women, though composition was not among the subjects offered to them.
Album & Artwork
The album title 'Ombres' (Shadows) aims to bring the music of these Belle Époque women composers out of oblivion, revealing their extraordinary creativity.
Composer Biography
Cécile Chaminade, a composer featured on this album, achieved considerable success in the United States, where 'Chaminade Societies' formed, making her a role model for modern women.
Historical Context
During the Belle Époque in Paris, women's status remained unchanged, limiting their access to professions like being a composer, despite the city's liberal atmosphere.
Performer Biography
Ammiel Bushakevitz, the pianist on this album, was one of the last private students of the renowned Lieder singer Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau.
Composer Biography
Mélanie (Mel) Bonis, a composer on this album, studied at the Paris Conservatoire alongside Claude Debussy and Gabriel Pierné, winning a first prize in harmony.
Composer Biography
Pauline Viardot, a composer and singer on this album, was the daughter of Spanish tenor Manuel García and sister of legendary soprano Maria Malibran.
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Belle époque !
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Songs
Lieder: Schumann / Mozart / Haydn / Beethoven / Schubert / Wolf
