Dame Ethel Smyth

Dame Ethel Mary Smyth (1858-1944) was a pioneering English composer and a fierce advocate for women's rights, leaving an indelible mark on both the musical world and the suffrage movement. Born in Sidcup, Smyth defied the societal norms of her time, becoming a prolific composer of operas, oratorios, concertos, and a wide range of other musical works. Her compositions, known for their complexity and emotional depth, reflect her unyielding spirit and innovative approach to music. Smyth was also a close friend of Emmeline Pankhurst and composed the iconic "March of the Women," which became an anthem for the suffrage movement. In 1922, she was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, the first female composer to receive this honor. Her legacy as a composer, conductor, suffragette, and writer continues to inspire, showcasing her remarkable talent and unwavering dedication to her craft and her causes.