Date of Award

8-2024

Degree Type

Dissertation/Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA)

School

Music

Committee Chair

Dr. Kimberley Davis

Committee Chair School

Music

Committee Member 2

Dr. Joseph Brumbeloe

Committee Member 2 School

Music

Committee Member 3

Dr. J. Taylor Hightower

Committee Member 3 School

Music

Committee Member 4

Dr. Jonathan Yarrington

Committee Member 4 School

Music

Committee Member 5

Dr. Edward Hafer

Committee Member 5 School

Music

Abstract

Women of the Windrush, composed by Shirley J. Thompson, is a mono-opera for soprano, film, and chamber orchestra. Thompson uses Women of the Windrush to rewrite history and effect change in the way women are portrayed in opera—from weak characters to heroic figures. As a woman composer of African descent faced with discrimination from an early age and coming from a history of women who were not recognized as composers within their time, Thompson is progressively being recognized for her contributions to the body of music literature, nationally and internationally. Concerning her works, there is little to no record of scholastic documentation, nevertheless, Thompson has made her music accessible through written compositions and successful performances of her works. This doctoral project seeks to promote women composers, particularly, to feature the significant contributions of Shirley J. Thompson—a pioneering composer.

The project provides biographical information on the composer, discusses her compositional style and influences, gives details on the social context and history of Women of the Windrush, and an interpretation of its text and music. Alongside examining the music and text, performance recommendations on characterization, use of language, and vocal delivery are provided. The overall intention of this doctoral project is to guide readers, especially curious musicians, in learning, teaching, and performing Women of the Windrush.

Download

  Contact Author

Share

COinS