The Norton/Grove Dictionary of Women Composers : Book Review

"The Norton Grove Dictionary of Women Composers" by Julie Anne Sadie is a comprehensive and authoritative reference guide that celebrates the invaluable contributions of women composers throughout history. This extensive dictionary offers a wealth of information about women composers from various countries, time periods, and musical genres.

Sadie's meticulous research and scholarship shine through in this book. Each entry provides detailed biographical information, a list of compositions, and critical evaluations of the composer's work. From well-known figures like Clara Schumann to lesser-known talents who have made significant contributions, the book showcases a diverse range of women composers who may have been overlooked in traditional music history narratives.

One of the strengths of this dictionary is its accessibility. Despite the scholarly nature of the content, Sadie's writing is engaging and easy to navigate. Readers can either search for a specific composer or explore the entries to uncover new names and stories. The clear and concise writing style makes it an enjoyable read while imparting valuable knowledge.

This book is not only a valuable resource for music scholars and students, but also for music enthusiasts who want to broaden their understanding of composers throughout history. Sadie's dedication to highlighting the incredible music of women composers resonates throughout the book, making it an essential addition to any music library.

"The Norton Grove Dictionary of Women Composers" serves as a testament to the rich and diverse history of women composers. By showcasing their contributions, the book challenges the traditional narratives that have often overshadowed their achievements. It is a must-have reference for anyone interested in discovering the remarkable work of women in the field of music composition.

What are readers saying?

"The Norton Grove Dictionary of Women Composers" by Julie Anne Sadie has received praise from readers for its comprehensive content and valuable resource for exploring women composers' works. The book is commended for providing detailed information on a wide range of composers throughout history, highlighting their contributions to music. Readers appreciate the extensive research done by the author and find the entries to be thorough and informative.

Reviewers also emphasize the book's significance in shedding light on marginalized composers who are often overlooked. They appreciate the inclusion of composers from different countries and time periods, as it offers a more balanced representation of women's contributions to music. The book is seen as an important tool in challenging prevailing notions of the music canon.

The user-friendly format of the dictionary is also mentioned by readers. They find the alphabetical arrangement to be easy to navigate, allowing them to explore specific composers of interest. The inclusion of bibliographical references for each entry is praised, as it enables readers to further delve into the works of these composers.

Many reviewers note that the book is a significant step towards acknowledging the significant role women have played in music composition. It is seen as a welcome addition to music scholarship, filling a gap in the literature and providing a platform for women composers to be recognized and studied.

Overall, "The Norton Grove Dictionary of Women Composers" is highly regarded by readers. It is seen as a valuable resource that supports the exploration and understanding of the contributions made by women composers throughout history. The book's comprehensive content, user-friendly format, and its role in promoting inclusivity and recognition of women in music are key themes in the positive reviews.

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