The Handel and Haydn Society – the oldest continually performing arts organization in the U.S. – is celebrating their bicentennial this year.  Founded in Boston in 1815, the chorus has made important U.S. premieres of works by the “great masters”, as well as works by American women composers.  The Handel and Haydn Society premiered Amy Beach’s Mass as well as works by Margaret Ruthven Lang.

The H+H website does share the concert listings since the 2000-2001 season.  A cursory review, however, shows that women composers haven’t been included in programming as of last.  What a shame that the management didn’t look to the history of the Boston composers when constructing the programs (or even one program) for this anniversary year.

But, even if there isn’t a nod to the women of the past – at least there is one for the women in music today.  The final concert of the subscription series features a world premiere by Gabriela Lena Frank (title TBD).  More information about the June 18th concert is available here.

Here is a taste of Beach’s Mass – and here’s to hoping the Handel and Haydn Society once again performs this important piece of American music.