March is Women's History Month, a time to celebrate the accomplishments of remarkable women throughout history—including those whose voices resonated through music. This week, Classic 107 is shining a spotlight on the works of Cécile Chaminade, a trailblazing French composer and pianist whose compositions captivated audiences in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Each day at 1 p.m., listeners can tune in to hear some of her most significant works, spanning chamber music, piano cycles, and orchestral repertoire.
The Life and Legacy of Cécile Chaminade
Born in Paris in 1857, Chaminade displayed prodigious musical talent from a young age. She studied privately with renowned teachers, as the Paris Conservatoire did not accept female students in composition at the time. Despite these barriers, she forged a successful career, gaining popularity in France, England, and the United States. Chaminade composed over 400 works, many of which were praised for their lyricism and charm. In 1913, she became the first female composer awarded the Légion d'honneur, France's highest civilian honour.
This week, Classic 107 is featuring a selection of her works that showcase her compositional prowess and versatility. Here’s what’s in store:
Monday, March 17 – Piano Trio No. 1 in G minor, Op. 11 (1881)
Chaminade's First Piano Trio exemplifies her gift for melody and structural clarity. Written in 1881, this work blends Romantic expressiveness with classical form. The interplay between violin, cello, and piano creates a dynamic, emotive journey that immediately draws in the listener.
Tuesday, March 18 – Piano Sonata in C minor, Op. 21 (1895)
A rare venture into the sonata form, Chaminade’s Piano Sonata in C minor is a dramatic and virtuosic work. Composed in 1895, it features bold contrasts, stormy passages, and lyrical interludes that highlight her mastery of the piano. While her piano miniatures were more commercially successful, this sonata demonstrates her ability to handle large-scale structures with confidence.
Wednesday, March 19 – Piano Trio No. 2 in A minor, Op. 34 (1887)
Written six years after her first piano trio, the Piano Trio No. 2 in A minor shows Chaminade’s growing maturity as a composer. The work contains lush harmonies and a rich, almost orchestral texture, making it a standout piece in her chamber music repertoire.
Thursday, March 20 – Album des Enfants, Op. 123 (1906)
Album des Enfants is a delightful collection of short piano pieces composed in 1906, aimed at young pianists but enjoyable for all listeners. Each miniature captures a whimsical or sentimental mood, showcasing Chaminade’s ability to craft vivid musical storytelling within concise forms.
Friday, March 21 – Trois Morceaux, Op. 66 (1897) & Flute Concertino, Op. 107 (1902)
The Trois Morceaux (Three Pieces) is a charming set for piano, demonstrating Chaminade’s characteristic elegance and grace. To conclude the week, Classic 107 will also feature her most famous composition, the Flute Concertino. Commissioned in 1902 as a concours (competition) piece for the Paris Conservatoire, this work is beloved by flutists worldwide for its lyrical beauty and virtuosic flourishes.
A Lasting Influence
Cécile Chaminade’s music may have been overlooked in the male-dominated classical canon, but her contributions remain significant. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, this week-long tribute on Classic 107 offers an opportunity to rediscover her artistry and appreciate the enduring charm of her compositions.
Tune in at 1 p.m. each day this week to experience the captivating world of Cécile Chaminade.