Role of women Composer

nineteenth-century composer , pianist clara schumann

in 1993, american musicologist marcia citron asked [w]hy music composed women marginal standard classical repertoire? citron examines practices , attitudes have led exclusion of women composers received canon of performed musical works. argues in 1800s, women composers typically wrote art songs performance in small recitals rather symphonies intended performance orchestra in large hall, latter works being seen important genre composers; since women composers did not write many symphonies, deemed not notable composers.

according abbey philips, women musicians have had difficult time breaking through , getting credit deserve. during medieval eras, of art music created liturgical (religious) purposes , due views roles of women held religious leaders, few women composed type of music, nun hildegard von bingen being among exceptions. university textbooks on history of music discuss exclusively role of male composers. well, few works women composers part of standard repertoire of classical music. in concise oxford history of music, clara schumann woman composer mentioned. philips states [d]uring 20th century women composing/playing gained far less attention male counterparts.

part of gender imbalance comes stereotypes , stigma surround idea of composer. women today being taken more in realm of concert music, though statistics of recognition, prizes, employment, , overall opportunities still biased toward men.