En-route with the hidden figures of classical music : a female note (1750 - 1830)

Abstract

The contributions of female musicians, performers and composers of the eighteenth century are often overlooked by modern historians, archivists and heritage practitioners, especially as it pertains to the formulation, development and growth of the Classical genre of music between “1750 – 1830”. Yet, it could be argued that the presence of eighteenth century women in Classical music discussions and debates could influence various contemporary conversations especially when this theme is considered from a novel touristic point of view. This study sets forth to consider the milieus of Classical music tourism and crossborder cultural route development across the European sub-continent, with a particular emphasis on twenty identified “hidden figures of Classical music”. This dissertation by way of a newly developed and originally created female-oriented musical pilgrimage will also consider the notions of women’s empowerment and gender equality as well as how heritage and cultural tourists can engage with and explore the legacies of these often forgotten and ignored musically inclined females of Classical music; “en-route” on their travels across Austria, Italy, Germany, France and the United Kingdom.