Course Description

Instructor: John O'Shea

Course Title: Celebrating Her Melody: A Journey Through the Works of Female Composers.

Join us for an enriching exploration of the Female Composers Series, a captivating journey through the lives and works of remarkable women who have left an indelible mark on the world of music. This series spans centuries and genres, showcasing the talent and innovation of female composers who have often been overlooked. Each session, held on Thursdays from January 11 to February 22, 2024, delves into the unique contributions of these composers, offering a glimpse into their lives, inspirations, and lasting impact.

*The instructor will be teaching online from home to his audience via Zoom and in the classroom. 

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Session Highlights:

Thursday, January 11, 2024 - Discover the trailblazing compositions of Elisabeth Jacquet de la Guerre, the sole official composer for French kings Louis XIV and Louis XV, and Fanny Mendelssohn, a renowned pianist and composer often compared to the legendary Thomas ("Fats") Waller.

Thursday, January 18, 2024 - Explore the musical legacy of Clara Schumann, inspired by cellist Charae Krueger and violinist Helen Kim, alongside Lil Hardin Armstrong, an early jazz pianist, band leader, and wife of the iconic Louis Armstrong.

Thursday, January 25, 2024 - Uncover the lyrical genius of Dorothy Fields, who collaborated with Jerome Kern on "I Won't Dance," and Ann Ronell, who interviewed and befriended George Gershwin while composing "Willow Weep for Me."

Thursday, February 1, 2024 - Dive into the jazz-infused compositions of Mary Lou Williams, including "Froggy Bottom" and "Walkin' and Swingin'," and explore the collaborative efforts of Billie Holiday, a singer and composer, with Irene Higginbotham.

Thursday, February 8, 2024 - Experience the modern compositions of Marian McPartland, known for "Twilight World" and "In the Days of Our Love," and the timeless tunes of Peggy Lee, singer and composer of "I Don't Know Enough about You" and "It's a Good Day."

Thursday, February 15, 2024 - Immerse yourself in the avant-garde works of Alice Coltrane, composer of "Journey in Satchidananda" and "Isis and Osiris," and the multifaceted talents of Geri Allen, a composer, pianist, and music educator.

Thursday, February 22, 2024 - Conclude the series with a focus on contemporary voices, including opera composer Laura Kaminsky, with a discussion led by Atlanta tenor Jonathan Blalock, and the vibrant compositions of Miranda Agnew, a trumpeter, former Jazz at Lincoln Center star, and Next Jazz Legacy semifinalist. Gain insights into Agnew's work in relation to the rich tradition of female composers.

Embark on this illuminating journey, celebrating the diversity and brilliance of female composers who have shaped the musical landscape across centuries.