Ilinka Manova

Fanny Hensel Mendelssohn: “The unconventional ornament” CD recording of her piano works

During the months of May-June 2024, I will make a CD Recording of already published and unpublished Fanny Hensel Mendelssohn piano compositions. This will enable the listener to better appreciate Hensel's music and the composer's unique musical voice. By undertaking this project, the aim is to inspire and to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on Fanny Hensel's music and promote her works to a wider audience. It is truly admirable how Fanny Hensel dedicated herself to composing, despite the lack of recognition she received during her lifetime. Her passion for music is evident through the creation of over 450 pieces. She didn't create music for fame or approval, but rather out of a pure inner drive to express herself. Fanny also generously wrote new pieces for the artists who performed in her concert series. It's unfortunate that her brother Felix Mendelssohn, who was already a well-known composer in Germany at the time, received more recognition than she did. This highlights the struggles faced by women who were denied their rightful place in the creative space. Gender inequality has been an issue for centuries, affecting the treatment of women across various sectors and areas of life. By adding my voice to the increasing number of recordings of female composers, I am helping to break down barriers and pave the way for future generations of women in music. I would like to encourage my fellow colleagues and students to join me in this pursuit of creativity and inspiration. I hope to inspire and empower more young women to follow their dreams and pursue their passions in the arts.