740-465 Women in Music

A study of the ways in which gender and sexual difference have been effected in the making and composing of art music. Beginning with medieval women, this subject explores the social and cultural context of women composers and performers from Hildegard to Clara Schumann, Ethel Smyth, Alma Mahler, Peggy Glanville-Hicks and Andrée Greenwell, as well as ideas of the "angel in the house" and the New Woman. It problematises women's bodies, women's voices and women's place in society, examining music by and about women as well as representations of women's music in art, literature and film.

On completion of this subject, students should have a detailed knowledge of women composers and musicians and their achievements and an understanding of the application of feminist theories to studies in music.

Four short seminar reports, two due in week 6, two at the end of semester (40%); essay of 2500 words due in week 10 (60%).

A book of readings will be available from the University Book Room before the start of semester.