The first-ever picture book about Ethel Smyth, the world-famous
composer and suffragette!
"Brave women in history are examples that help us to be brave in the
present. Learning about Ethel Smyth will be life-changing right now."
--Gloria Steinem
? "Astirring tribute to a free-spirited composer who rode roughshod over
her time'sconstraints on women....A rare nod to a now (but undeservedly)
obscure artist, eloquent and inspirational."--Kirkus Reviews, starred
review
A 2023 Notable Trade Social Studies Trade Book forYoung People
(NCSS-CBC)
In 1867 England, a girl learned to be proper and speak when spoken to.
But one girl marched to a different beat. Ethel Smyth climbed fences,
explored graveyards, and yearned to become a famous composer at a time
when only men could publish their music. But become a composer she did,
first signing her music as E. Smyth so people couldn't guess her gender,
then eventually writing openly as a woman (but still sometimes not
getting paid!). Ethel had had enough. She joined the suffragette
movement, marching in the streets and fighting for the right to vote.
She even composed the famous "March of the Women" battle cry--and
directed it from her cell window with a toothbrush when she was put into
prison.
In superb text and stunning illustrations, Rise Up With a Song tells
this remarkable story of Ethel Smyth, the woman who refused to stay down
and who used her music to change the fate of women around the world.
Backmatter includes a brief bio of Ethel's musical life, a list of
famous works, and even a fascimile of her famous "March of the Women."
An essential addition to musical and feminist libraries everywhere!
"As I discovered when I first encountered her superb compositions, Ethel
Smyth's music speaks for itself. But reading about her remarkable life
story can also compel us to do more - to be more bold, and to fight for
what we believe in. Told here in a wonderful way by Diane Worthey, this
book will inspire people of all ages and genders." --James Blachly,
Music Director, Experiential Orchestra
