Francesca Caccini

Continuing our look at women composers, let's talk about Francesca Caccini (1587–1640). Singer, composer, and teacher, Caccini was born into a musical family, the daughter of famed composer Giulio Caccini. She made her singing debut at the wedding of Marie de' Medici and Henry IV, for whom her father composed wedding music. Henry IV was so impressed by her talent that he requested she come into his service. Her father claimed that she was not granted permission from her current family of service, the Grand Duke Ferdinando de' Medici of Tuscany. Some scholars, however, believe Giulio made a false claim, not wanting to lose control over his daughter.

In 1607, when Caccini was just 20, she was appointed to sing and compose for the court of the Grand-Duke of Tuscany by the Grand Duchess Christine de Lorraine, who controlled the court at the time. The fact that the court was controlled by a woman likely helped Caccini's career to blossom, giving her more opportunities than she may have experienced otherwise.

Caccini's talent was respected and she worked hard to establish her career—a difficult task for a woman in that era. That being said, she still held the status of a servant in the court. Sadly, many of her works were lost following her lifetime.

Join me next time as we look at one of her better-known operas!

Hildegard von Bingen's The Virtues

Clef Notes is currently taking a look at women composers. This week, we are discussing Hildegard von Bingen (1098–1179), a German abbess and prophetess who also wrote religious texts, which were then set to music for the Mass and Office. Because people believed she was divinely inspired, she likely felt less prejudice for being a woman. That being said, her music's use didn't extend much outside her own community.

Today, let's listen to Hildegard's The Virtues (1151), a sacred music drama that was not attached to the liturgy. This morality play featured several figurative characters including Prophets, Virtues, Happy Soul, Unhappy Soul, and Penitent Soul. Each character has a singing role except the Devil, who cannot sing because he is separated from God. Listen to this beautiful, medieval work. Do you enjoy this type of music?

Hildegard von Bingen

Hildegard von Bingen (1098–1179) lived during an era when women were expected to remain silent in church. The only way to participate in any type of leadership role or in singing and composing was by joining a convent. Hildegard was born into a noble German family who gave her up to the church at a young age. As a result, she had many intellectual opportunities within the convent which women on the outside did not receive.

Hildegard was known for founding her own convent and also as a prophet. Because people believed she was divinely inspired, she likely felt less prejudice for being a woman. Perhaps this is why she is considered to be one of the Middle Age's most prominent composers.

Next time, join me as we look closer at one famous composition by Hildegard von Bingen.