Esther Abrami discovers overlooked music by female composers
Violinist Esther Abrami has always felt a deep connection to the violin, starting when she first laid eyes on the instrument at just 3 years old. This initial encounter with her late grandmother’s violin sparked a love affair that continues to shape her career as a celebrated violinist today. Following the thread of her own musical lineage, Abrami pays homage to her predecessor with her first recorded composition, “Transmission,” on her latest album “Women.”
Abrami’s strong emotional connection to her music is evident in the songs featured on the album. She discovered that historically, music composed by women has been overlooked and undervalued, prompting her to explore and document the hidden treasures of female composers. Her album showcases the works of several remarkable women, including Ina Boyle, whose Violin Concerto captures a serene beauty reminiscent of a pastoral poem.
In addition to featuring Boyle’s compositions, “Women” includes pieces by composers such as Chiquinha Gonzaga and Teresa Carreño. The album acts as a tribute to these forgotten musical pioneers and talented artists whose contributions have often gone unnoticed. Abrami’s decision to spotlight these lesser-known voices in the classical music sphere sheds light on the need for greater diversity and representation within the industry.
Not only does “Women” draw attention to historical female composers, but it also features contemporary artists like Rachel Portman, Anne Dudley, Miley Cyrus, and Yoko Shimomura. As a young musician herself, Abrami felt compelled to rectify the stark gender imbalance she witnessed in her own musical education. Despite the progress made in recent years to promote inclusivity in classical music, challenges persist, and disparities in performance opportunities remain.
Abrami’s advocacy for female composers extends beyond her recordings through her active presence on social media. By engaging with a wider audience online, she hopes to inspire the next generation of young musicians to pursue their passions fearlessly. Her mission is not just to challenge existing norms but to reshape them entirely, creating a more equitable landscape for artists of all backgrounds to thrive.
The themes explored in “Women” represent a labor of love for Abrami, as she unearths and celebrates the rich tapestry of compositions by women that have laid dormant for far too long. Looking to the future, Abrami remains hopeful that her efforts will pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse musical landscape where every voice can be heard and valued.