ABC Classic Marks a Decade of Female Composers Festival
ABC Classic is set to celebrate the 10th anniversary of its annual Festival of Female Composers, running from March 6 to March 8, 2026. This significant initiative, which began in 2016, champions music by women across centuries of classical music, coinciding with International Women's Day.
The multi-day radio festival will exclusively feature music by women, showcasing their enduring contributions to classical and jazz genres.
ABC Classic Festival Highlights
The festival promises a rich and diverse listening experience. Highlights for ABC Classic include three 'super concerts' compiling live recordings of remarkable female artists and their music.
On International Women's Day (March 8):
- Swedish vocal quartet Åkervinda will perform live in the studio.
- The much-anticipated 'Hilda-thon' will return, offering four hours of music by twelfth-century mystic Hildegard von Bingen.
ABC Jazz Joins the Celebration
ABC Jazz will also actively participate in the anniversary celebrations. The station will release a new compilation from its 'Women of Jazz' series.
This special release highlights new music from Australian women-led projects, featuring:
- Saxophonist Tessie Overmyer
- Vocalist Lauren Kate Henderson
- Guitarist Jess Green
- Pianist Lauren Tsamouras
Throughout March, ABC Jazz programming will include a focus on legendary vocalist Carmen McRae, alongside Artist in Residence Hinano Fujisaki.
Special Jazz Episodes
Several special episodes are scheduled:
- On March 6, Monica Trapaga will celebrate women in jazz on 'The Dinner Set'.
- Australian singer and composer Michelle Nicolle will present an International Women's Day 'Jazztrack' special on March 8, exploring the works of artists from Mary Osborne to Judy Bailey.
Lead-Up to the Festival
Leading up to the main festival, ABC Classic will offer a week of special programming. From March 2-6, listeners can enjoy features on women in classical music, spotlighting artists like Sally Whitwell and Anna Lapwood. The lead-up will also showcase works by young female performers.
Diverse Festival Programming
The festival itself, from March 6-8, will feature an extensive and varied schedule. Programming will include lunchtime concerts, evening concerts, and specialist shows. These dedicated programs will delve into specific areas such as opera, game music, and Baroque-era women composers, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of women's musical contributions.