Melbourne Conservatorium of Music - Theses
Permanent URI for this collection
Search Results
1 - 1 of 1
-
ItemThe hallmark of European approval: the exodus of Australian female musicians to London and European study centres between 1890 and 1915( 2019)This thesis identifies and examines the journeys of ‘the mass’ of Australian female musicians who left Australia between 1890 and 1915, a time when many aspects of women’s lives and activities were still restricted (or limited) by virtue of their gender. It demonstrates that overseas music study had a positive impact on the future careers of a significant cohort of women. The thesis presents its findings as an empirical historiographical narrative supported by some statistical analysis. The women travelled to London and other European cities to pursue formal music study at some of the world’s most prestigious music conservatoriums and with some of the best-known and most influential teachers. This thesis places their journeys within the context of students’ differing social and educational backgrounds and examines the ‘rituals’ and actualities of their journeys, together with their motivations for choosing overseas music study over study in Australia. A thorough breakdown of the numbers, student types and outcomes are analysed and presented for both the private students and the institutionally-based students across both locations, allowing for comparisons and conclusions to be drawn. By drawing on individual experiences, the collective tableaux of narratives, plus two in-depth case studies—those of Emily Dyason (pianist) and Lalla Miranda (soprano), a collective picture emerges that demonstrates the relevance and importance of overseas study in the establishment of visible careers. It clearly shows that these hitherto ‘unremarkable’ women were often leading quite ‘remarkable’ musical lives and making significant contributions to musical life at home and abroad.