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Teresa del Riego is a name you might not be familiar with, but perhaps you ought to. More than 300 ballads were written by the Spanish/English songwriter. Throughout her lengthy life (1876–68), her music was frequently played, especially at King Edward VII’s coronation in 1902. Despite being well-liked in her time, her music has not survived as long as that of many other well-known male classical composers.
Conductor and pianistBy reintroducing del Riego and numerous other female composers whose work has been undervalued in the male-dominated classical world, Mary Box hopes to change that.
Box is the creator of the nonprofit organization the Montrose Project, which aims to increase awareness of women’s music.
She explains to Houston Matters presenter Craig Cohen in the aforementioned audio why she started the initiative, how she wants to increase awareness of classical works by women, and why it should feature composers from the past and present who may serve as role models for the future generation of female classical composers.
They also talk about how well-known groups and music colleges may promote contemporary female composers and inspire others to pursue the art.
Hold Fast to Langston Dreamsby’s Dreams Powell, Rosephanye
Singer Reginald Smith, Jr. Mary Box, a pianist
