An amplification of the voices of women past and present
All are welcome to join Music in Offices's International Women's Day Chorus - March with us or sing with us at our performances on March 7th drawing on historical women in the City across 500 years.
'City of Women' is a project and performance dedicated to amplifying the voices of women past and present from the City of London. Originally the entirety of London, and later comprising half of it, until 200 years ago, The City encapsulates a multitude of women with diverse experiences.
In 2018, the project made its debut in Leadenhall Market, commissioned by the Corporation of London, to commemorate the centenary of women's right to vote. The market, historically a bustling food hub, was chosen as the venue due to its role as a space where women actively engaged in buying and selling. The performance highlighted the contributions of women, including meat porters who did heavy lifting until the 1840s. Notable figures, ranging from a young watercress vendor proud of her earnings to the accomplished Hester Pinney, were featured.
Fast forward to 2024, 'City of Women' expands its scope by incorporating the voices of current inspiring women working in the City, championing their achievements and sharing the challenges they have faced as women in the workplace. Words from conversations with Veronica Horwell and Tessa Marchington, Director of Music in Offices, who has brought these women together, will be heard at the performance on 7th March, 2024.
These women will include Joanna Abeyie MBE, Kathryn McDowell DBE, Tangy C Morgan, Claire Ezekwe, Alison Gowman, Sadie Morgan OBE, Claire Spencer, Ayo Abbas, and Lauren Birney. Together, they weave a narrative that bridges the past and the present, encouraging audiences to delve into the stories of all these remarkable women. 'City of Women' stands as a powerful tribute to women's resilience, innovation, and impact within the City of London, celebrating their contributions across centuries.
