NSU to host Sing Their Songs, Tell Their Stories: Women in Music Festival - April 25

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University will host the Sing Their Songs, Tell Their Stories: Women in Music Vocal Festival on April 25, 2026, at the NSU Center for the Performing Arts. The event celebrates the music, history and lasting contributions of women composers while providing students an opportunity to showcase their musical growth and scholarship.

Focused on solo vocal literature, the festival highlights work by female composers across history, cultures and musical traditions. Through performances and lecture recitals, audiences will gain a broader perspective on the voices and stories that have shaped music but are not always widely recognized.

“The Women in Music Festival is about celebration, discovery and advocacy,” Dr. Alison Moore, NSU assistant professor of music, said. “We want to create space for student scholarship and performance while also bringing attention to extraordinary music that has too often been overlooked. Our hope is that audiences leave inspired not only by the performances, but by the richness and diversity of voices represented.”

NSU President Rodney Hanley said the festival reflects the university’s commitment to academic learning and artistic discovery.

“Education is strongest when it invites students to explore diverse perspectives and untold stories,” Hanley said. “This festival not only celebrates the artistry of women composers, but also empowers students to engage deeply with history, scholarship and performance in ways that expand their understanding of the world and their place within it.”

Event Schedule:

• 11:45 a.m. – First session of Student Lecture Recitals
• 2 p.m. – Second session of Student Lecture Recitals
• 3:30 p.m. – Masterclass with Dr. Taylor Hutchinson
• 7 p.m. – Festival Recital: Student Presenters in Performance

Each lecture recital will include a performance of one solo vocal work by a female composer, accompanied by a brief lecture exploring the historical, cultural or musical significance of the composer and piece. Presentations will last 15 minutes, followed by a five-minute audience question-and-answer period.

Undergraduate and graduate students in music or related fields are encouraged to apply. Applicants must submit a 250- to 500-word proposal, a short biography outlining their academic program and performance or research experience, and an audio recording of the proposed piece. The submission deadline is March 21, 2026.

For more information or to submit an application, visit https://academics.nsuok.edu/music/women-in-music-festival.aspx.

For additional information, contact Dr. Alison Moore at moore218@nsuok.edu

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