Springfield Symphony Orchestra Celebrates Women’s History Month at Concert

In Tuesday/s (3/10) MassLive.com (Massachusetts), Keith O’Connor writes, “Women will take center stage at Symphony Hall on Saturday, March 14, when the Springfield Symphony Orchestra presents ‘Mendelssohn, Gershwin, & A Woman’s Voice.’… The concert will feature women composers and performers to celebrate Women’s History Month. Guest conductor and SSO Artistic Advisor Mei-Ann Chen will [lead the performance]. The concert will also include the return of … pianist Claire Huangci … ‘From the extraordinary music of Fanny Mendelssohn to the dynamic leadership of Mei-Ann Chen and the breathtaking artistry of Claire Huangci, this program reflects what happens when talent and vision are given the space they deserve,’ said Heather Caisse-Roberts, President and CEO of the SSO …. Chen … noted that women composers have been overlooked for the most part, with a few exceptions … The League of American Orchestras reported that in 2022, 112 works by women were performed by U.S. orchestras; in 2023, 102 works performed were by women and non-binary composers; and in 2024, 121 works by women composers were performed by U.S. orchestras, out of thousands of compositions performed…. The SSO will also celebrate the recipients of its fourth annual Fearless Women Awards, honoring local women who embody courage, resilience, and empowerment.”