Paola Prestini - Female composer and co-founder of National Sawdust

My pianist Mila Henry has worked with Paola Prestini previously and recommended her to me. I was also familiar with the Brooklyn-based organization she co-founded called National Sawdust which showcases new musical works. National Sawdust had been recommended to me by colleagues, including our videographer John Ciampa, for Voices of Women’s fundraising efforts.

“Still” was commissioned for my debut album “Voices of Women”, thanks to our generous supporters during the final stages of the campaign, and is a duet for two sopranos and piano. I was so delighted that my sister Rebecca Obert agreed to sing the other soprano part, and we had a lot of fun working closely with Paola Prestini, Mila Henry and our recording team at Affetto to bring this work to life. The libretto was written by Mark Campbell, a leader in the contemporary opera scene.

Heather FetrowAugust 18, 2019History of Women’s Art Song, Paola Prestini Comment

Finally, her story is being sung

For centuries women’s musical work has been hidden from view. The time has come for these stories to be sung for the all world to hear. The musical gems of women should be treasured and proudly displayed like fine jewels.

Through the musical performances and research of Heather Fetrow and her colleagues, these pearls of music history are finally receiving the adoration they deserve.

Paola Prestini - Female composer and co-founder of National Sawdust