La Cité des Compositrices

Founded in 2020 by cellist Héloïse Luzzati, La Cité des Compositrices is dedicated to identifying, promoting, and disseminating the works of women composers, whether historical or contemporary. Its mission responds to a troubling reality: during the 2022–2023 season, only 6% of all classical works programmed in France were composed by women, representing roughly 4% of total airtime.

The association has developed a comprehensive approach based on extensive research, including the unearthing of manuscripts and the study of little‑known or forgotten scores. A collective of musicians contributes daily to the rediscovery of these repertoires, which are largely absent from editions, recordings, and mainstream programming. This research informs production, outreach, and dissemination initiatives designed to make this musical heritage accessible to all.

Among its activities are a concert season, an annual festival (Un Temps pour Elles), a record label, and a sheet‑music publishing house (La Boîte à Pépites Publishing). The association also collaborates with leading cultural institutions such as the Philharmonie de Paris, the Bibliothèque nationale de France, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Abbaye de Royaumont.

To date, nearly 5,000 scores by women composers have been catalogued thanks to the combined efforts of musicologists and performers, and around 1,000 of these works have been performed in concert. This work contributes to greater visibility and representation of women composers within the musical landscape.

Since 2025, the Société Générale Corporate Foundation has supported La Cité des Compositrices, helping to strengthen its research, publishing, and dissemination activities.

Photo credits: David Blondin / Capucine de Chocqueuse