Isabella Leonarda

Isabella Leonarda was an Italian composer from the 17th century who stands out as one of the most prolific female composers of her time. Born in 1620 in Novara, Italy, she entered a convent of the Ursuline order at a young age, which became both her lifelong home and the setting for much of her musical output. Despite the restrictions women faced in her era, Leonarda composed over 200 works, ranging from sacred vocal music to instrumental sonatas—a rare achievement for a woman composer at the time.

One of her most notable contributions to music was her book of sonatas published in 1693, making her one of the first women to compose in this genre. Her work blends the spiritual intensity of sacred vocal traditions with the expressive possibilities of the instrumental sonata form. Today, Isabella Leonarda is celebrated not only for her musical talent but also for breaking barriers for women in classical music.

Genres

Classical

Chamber Music

Opera

Baroque

Sacred Music

Oratorio

Cantata

Latest Release

Isabella Leonarda: Pone Spes in Planctu Amaro

Isabella Leonarda

Album - 8 Tracks - Released June 16, 2024