WELCOME TO EMPOWER!
EMPOWER is a platform championing women’s voices in music, both historically and today, through performance, commissioning, advocacy and community.
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Founded in 2021 by musicians Hannah Seymour and Sinéad Walsh whilst studying at the Royal Northern College of Music, EMPOWER was created in response to the underrepresentation of women in classical music and the lack of visible professional pathways for emerging artists.
What began as a grassroots concert series has since grown into a national platform supporting emerging musicians and women composers through high-profile performance opportunities, new commissions, industry conversations and collaborative projects across the UK and Ireland.
At the heart of EMPOWER is a belief that the future of classical music should have no boundaries; a future where women’s voices, creativity and leadership are fully represented on stage, in programming and across the wider industry.
OUR FOUR PILLARS
Together, these four pillars allow EMPOWER to support artists beyond a single opportunity, creating pathways for long-term artistic growth, and helping emerging musicians and composers grow into future industry trailblazers.
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PERFORMANCE
Creating ambitious live events that celebrate women’s artistry whilst providing meaningful opportunities for emerging musicians.
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COMMISSIONING
Supporting and platforming women composers through new commissions, premieres and long-term creative development.
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ADVOCACY
Encouraging important conversations around representation, visibility and equality within the music industry.
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COMMUNITY
Building supportive networks that connect artists, audiences, educators, venues and organisations through collaboration and shared experience.
OUR MISSION
To champion women’s voices in music through performance, opportunity and collaboration, whilst supporting the next generation of musicians and composers.
OUR VISION
We envision a future where there are no boundaries to who is seen, heard and celebrated within classical music.
OUR VALUES
EXCELLENCE
We are committed to ambitious artistic work and meaningful creative experiences that inspire our artists and audiences
REPRESENTATION
We believe the music industry should reflect the diversity of the people shaping its future, both on and off the stage.
COLLABORATION
We value connection, mentorship and the sharing of ideas across artistic communities, creating spaces where artists can grow together.
EMPOWERMENT
We aim to provide emerging musicians and composers with the confidence, visibility and opportunities needed to become the next generation of industry trailblazers.
OUR STORY
Since its launch, EMPOWER has worked with hundreds of performers and composers through concerts, commissions, panel discussions and collaborative projects across the UK and Ireland.
As the organisation continues to grow, EMPOWER remains rooted in its founding aim: supporting emerging artists, celebrating women’s voices and helping shape a more representative future for music.
