Student Solo Favorites: Living Women Composers
Let’s face it: Classical Music hasn’t always been friendly to women. Many women composers throughout the centuries have had to compose in secret, publish their music under a fake male identity, or haven’t received proper recognition until after they’ve passed.
But the good news is that things can change, including the stick-in-the-mud, slow-to-change Classical Music world! And given that there are so many young girls studying flute, here are some of their favorite pieces composed by living women!
Btw, I don't make any money off of the sheet music links in this list. I just like to share the love.
1. Spring Song by Dr. Lauren Bernofsky
"If happy had a song, this would be it."
Flute and piano
Great for getting comfortable with sharp key signatures and key changes
Sounds energetic whether you play it up to tempo or under tempo
The melody stays mostly in the staff, with some high register notes
Slurred and smooth melodies while still being upbeat
2. Fisherman’s Song by Chen Yi
"The main melody is super pretty! I like that the high register stuff isn't crazy hard like it usually is in other pieces."
Flute and piano
Simple key signatures with two main melodies
Technical section with octave jumps