This work represents a comprehensive historical overview of music created by women from the 9th to the 20th century. Each volume features 10-25 complete musical scores or complete movements from multi-movement compositions, many of which have been previously difficult to access. Expert scholars provide original essays about the composers, including biographical information, a discussion of the music in historical content, and critical analysis of each work. Entries also include a bibliography, a list of works by the composer and a discography. This first volume about composers born before 1600, covers music by women of the convent, women of nobility, and the trobaritz (women troubadors). The music is predominantly sacred, vocal and a capella.

Updates and expands Claghorn's previous book, Women Composers and Hymnists (Scarecrow, 1984). Scholars and students in women's studies, music, and history will enjoy this new ready reference source that presents succinct biographies for female composers in both secular and sacred music. Entries are arranged in alphabetical order and cover a broad spectrum of music, including classical, jazz, blues, rock, and sacred.