The Venus Unwrapped series includes just 100 of the 6,000 known historical female composers. This afternoon promises to give you a grand sweep of the background to the series thanks to lively speakers, from pioneering academics to writers and performers.

Join leading academics and experts for lively sessions on the latest findings in historical research on women composers.

2pm – Professor Laurie Stras (Huddersfield University): ‘Dare to Declare Who You Are’

Professor Laurie Stras (University of Huddersfield; Musica Secreta) on the musical treasures of the Medieval and Renaissance convents, from Hildegard to Leonora d’Este.

3pm – Dr Anna Beer: ‘Women on Top’

The author of Sounds and Sweet Airs: The Forgotten Women of Classical Music reveals just how much the impressive careers of composers in the 16th & 17th centuries such as Francesca Caccini or Elisabeth Jacquet de la Guerre depended on the existence of women in positions of political power.

4.15pm – Diana Ambache’s Desert Island Discs

Diana Ambache, pianist and founder of the Ambache Ensemble and Ambache Charitable Trust, has pioneered and supported the performance of music by women composers for more than 30 years. Here she reveals her favourite discoveries, in conversation with Dr Kate Kennedy.

5.15pm – Panel Discussion led by Dr Kate Kennedy

The speakers reflect on current research and publishing initiatives in a panel discussion led by Dr Kate Kennedy, Oxford Centre of Life Writing.

Event lasts approximately 4 hours with short breaks.