Appel de conférences pour le colloque international « Women and Music in the Iberian Courts (1600-1900) », Université Complutense, Madrid, 7-8 mai 2026.

« Despite recent advances in research in the fields of Women’s History and Gender Studies, these remain insufficient in Portugal and Spain when it comes to music. Regarding the Royal Courts, the paradox of “highly visible, often obscure” (Earenfight, 2008) persists. The Iberian monarchies of the 17th to 19th centuries, whether absolutist or constitutional, constitute a fertile field of study from this perspective, comprising both in-depth investigation of relatively well-known figures and the revelation of others who remained in the shadows. Matrimonial ties between the two Iberian courts, and with other European courts, as well as political alliances and family and diplomatic networks, contributed to the circulation and exchange of cultural and musical practices, in which women played, directly or indirectly, important roles. Furthermore, the musical activities of royal and aristocratic women from Portugal and Spain sometimes extended to other territories, including the colonies of both Iberian countries. With this conference, we aim to explore issues related to women and music in the Iberian world through different scientific approaches.

Among other possible themes related to this scope, we intend to study how women made (or did not make) political use of musical patronage; what activities royal and aristocratic women engaged in; what repertoires they cultivated and which musicians they promoted. We will also seek to understand to what extent their relationship with music was due to gender stereotypes, linked to tradition and/or court ceremonial, or to individual choices.

The scientific committee encourages submissions within the following topics:

Music and royal power;
Musical patronage;
Courtly and religious ceremonial;
Performance and composition;
Collecting music (scores, librettos, musical instruments);
Artistic and diplomatic networks;
Music and other arts;
Spaces for music;
Education in music and dance;
Music as a key element for female agency;
Musical sociabilities ».

Date limite de soumission :15 janvier 2026

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