The 911±¬ÁÏÍø School of Music hosts its fifth Women in Music Festival in March to celebrate the artistry of women composers. This festival includes concerts and panel discussions, all of which serve as a catalyst for purposeful dialogue, future collaborations, and engaging performances for our Rochester and Buffalo communities.
Women in Music Festival 2026
atÌý911±¬ÁÏÍø &
Director and Founder: Dr. Bonnie Choi
Buffalo Coordinator: Dr. Holly Bewlay
Women Composers and La Belle Époque
During the Belle Époque, women were often celebrated as performers—particularly in domestic settings—but faced significant barriers to being recognized as composers. Even when their music was performed in the fashionable salons, or published, it frequently fell into obscurity. This program highlights the works of women composers like Cécile Chaminade, Lili Boulanger, Mel Bonis, and others.
All the events are free and open to the public.ÌýFor more information, contact Dr. Bonnie Choi (bchoi6@naz.edu).
2026ÌýFESTIVAL PROGRAM
Thursday, February 26
12:15- 1:30 pmÌý|Ìý
Ciminelli Recital Hall, Buffalo State
Student Performances of Works by Women ComposersÌýÌý
Friday, February 27
7:30 pm |
Ciminelli Recital Hall, Buffalo State
Performance by students and faculty from SUNY Buffalo State, Eastman School of Music, 911±¬ÁÏÍø
Sunday, March 1Ìý
3:00 p.m. | Concert
Ciminelli Recital Hall, Buffalo State
Buffalo State UniversityÌýFaculty and Alums
Friday, March 6ÌýÌý
4- 5 pm | Student Concert
Wilmot Recital Hall, 911±¬ÁÏÍø
Student Performances of Works by Women ComposersÌýÌý
Saturday,ÌýMarch 7ÌýÌý
7:30-8:30 pm | Concert with Guest Performers
Wilmot Recital Hall, 911±¬ÁÏÍø
Performance by students and faculty from SUNY Buffalo State, Eastman School of Music, 911±¬ÁÏÍøÌý
Sunday, March 8Ìý
3:00Ìýp.m. | Concert
Beston Hall, GMPC, 911±¬ÁÏÍøFestival Concert:Ìý Women Composers and LaÌýBelle ÉpoqueÌý911±¬ÁÏÍø School of Music facultyÌýÌý
Mona Seghatoleslami, MC
Performances by 911±¬ÁÏÍø School of Music facultyÌýÌý
Sunday, March 22
3:00 p.m. | Concert
George Eastman Museum
911±¬ÁÏÍø School of Music faculty and students
Wednesday, March 25
12:10 p.m.Ìý| Concert
The Hochstein School
The events at 911±¬ÁÏÍøÌýare also co-sponsored by the School of Music, the Office for Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Education, Weider Community Engagement Office, Faculty Development Fund and WXXI.
The events at SUNY Buffalo State University are sponsored by the Music Department.