Women in Medieval and Renaissance Music

While historical records often overlook women's contributions, evidence reveals their significant musical presence:

- Trobairitz: Female troubadours composed and performed, though fewer of their works survive - Convent composers: Nuns created liturgical music for their communities - Noble patronesses: Women like Eleanor of Aquitaine shaped musical culture through patronage - Professional musicians: Female jongleurs and minstrels performed in courts and public spaces

The convent of Fontevraud, where Eleanor of Aquitaine retired, became a center of female musical activity. Convents provided one of the few spaces where women could pursue serious musical study and composition.