Date of Award
1-1-2023
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ph.D. in Music
First Advisor
Rhonda Hackworth
Second Advisor
Alan Spurgeon
Third Advisor
Ian Hominick
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
French composer and pianist Cécile Chaminade was one of the first women to make a career of composing. She had many strong musical influences in her life including Georges Bizet, Mortiz Moszkowski, and her parents. Chaminade composed approximately 400 pieces of music, 200 of which are piano works. She preferred to compose in smaller forms and was the leading exponent of the salon music style. For many years, Chaminade was the only well-known female composer to the general public. She remains one of the most published composers of her generation. Her most successful piano piece, Scarf Dance Op. 37, sold millions of copies and was once played by virtually every intermediate-level pianist. Chaminade composed a wide range of piano works including those for the intermediate pianist, and pieces for the advanced performer. Chaminade’s influence and dedication to amateur musicians led to hundreds of Chaminade Clubs being established throughout the United States and Europe. Chaminade Clubs were established to promote the study of music and cultivate an appreciation of music among communities. Despite her success, Chaminade was ignored in France when she refused to adapt to the new and changing musical styles at the turn of the twentieth century. Today her piano works have been largely neglected by music historians and performers, leaving her known only for a few vocal works, piano works, and a concertino for flute. This study investigates Chaminade’s career, her pedagogical piano repertoire, and her influence on music education through Chaminade Clubs. Chaminade’s legacy and impact on amateur, as well as professional, musicians deserves to be rediscovered.
Recommended Citation
Schultz, Rebekah Leigh, "A Historical Study of Cécile Chaminade: Pianist, Composer, and Music Educator" (2023). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 2872.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/2872