How do society, customs, friendships and language characterise a composer's work?
 
In the last century, their art was often regarded as secondary, their inspiration less appreciated than that of their male colleagues, and their works remained largely unknown to the public.
 
Our journey through different histories, cultures, languages and countries begins with an important personality: Pauline Viardot. A celebrated singer of international renown, she was not only polyglot, but also deeply immersed in the literary worlds of Germany and Russia while socialising in the salons of Paris and London. She is closely associated with Clara Schumann, an outstanding pianist and friend whose virtuoso playing and compositional talent significantly influenced and revolutionised the musical careers of many women.
 
Alma Mahler, active in Vienna at the turn of the century, carries a vision of optimism and renewal in "Die stille Stadt", which tells of the torments and longings that echo in Johanna Müller-Hermann's "Herbst" setting.
The journey continues with Rebecca Clarke, Florence Price and Amy Beach, who share a symbolic musical language. In their sounds we sense nocturnal silence, dreadful foreboding as well as radiant, heavenly tones.
 
With the works of Nadia and Lili Boulanger, we delve deep into the impressionist world of sound - a world in which the audience can use their imagination to paint a blooming meadow full of lilies or a vast prairie. Finally, the sunny tones of Cécile Chaminade's "Nice-La Belle" transport us to a radiant afternoon on the Côte d'Azur.