Woman Composer Sunday 2024 at Wakefield Cathedral

March 10 marks a significant occasion in the world of music – Woman Composer Sunday. Observed annually on the Sunday closest to International Women’s Day, this day celebrates the invaluable contributions of women composers to the musical landscape. For the second consecutive year, Wakefield Cathedral Music Department proudly honours this day by showcasing choral and organ music exclusively composed by women.

Choir Repertoire:
Margaret Rizza – Mass of the Bread of Life
Mary Plumstead – A Grateful Heart
Ghislaine Reece-Trapp – Mass for the Mystery of Faith
Kerensa Briggs – Ave Regina Coelorum
Joanna Forbes L’Estrange – Preces and Responses
Kerensa Briggs – Gloucester Service
Edie Hill – For God so Loved the World

Organ Repertoire:
Sarah MacDonald – Trio on Attende Domine
Judith Weir – Tree of Peace
Julie Ainscough – Ubi Caritas

This curated selection of pieces represents a diverse array of compositions, each bearing the unique voice and perspective of its composer. From Margaret Rizza’s poignant “Mass of the Bread of Life” to Edie Hill’s emotive “For God so Loved the World,” these works showcase the depth of talent and creativity within the realm of women composers.

Assistant Director of Music, Alana Brook, said “Women Composer Sunday is a great chance to showcase some of our repertoire by women composers, which we also strive to feature in our services throughout the year.”

Under the skilled direction of Wakefield Cathedral Music Department, these compositions will come to life in a performance that pays homage to the rich legacy of women in music. We invite you to join us in this celebration of artistry, innovation, and the enduring power of music to transcend boundaries.