Dina Appeldoorn

Full biography Dina Appeldoorn

Dina Appeldoorn (1884-1938) was a Dutch composer and pianist. She wrote a variety of works, including choral pieces and a symphony. Despite her talent, Appeldoorn faced significant challenges as a female composer during her lifetime. She often had to deal with discrimination and prejudice in the male-dominated music industry of the early 20th century.

Some of Appeldoorn's works have been preserved and her name occasionally appears in scholarly research on early 20th century music. Her Symphony No.1 has been performed in recent years, helping to bring some attention to her legacy.

Appeldoorn was born in Rotterdam on December 26, 1884, and began her musical training at a young age. Her talents were soon recognized, and by the time she was a teenager, she was already performing in public. She continued her education, studying with some of the leading musicians of the day, including composer Willem Pijper.

Throughout the 1920s, Appeldoorn composed a range of works, including choral pieces, orchestral works, and music for chamber ensembles. Her Symphony No. 1 is considered to be one of her most important works. Despite receiving positive reviews, the Symphony was not performed again for many years after its premiere and didn't receive the recognition she deserved during her lifetime.

Appeldoorn died in 1938 at the age of 53, leaving behind a body of work that is only now being rediscovered and appreciated. Despite the challenges she faced as a female composer at a time when her profession was dominated by men, Appeldoorn's music displays a unique and distinct style that deserves greater recognition among music enthusiasts and scholars alike.