An acclaimed all-female group from Suffolk is to perform a concert of words and music to celebrate inspiring women.

The concert by Seraphim will feature a specially devised programme of words and music by, about and for, unique and talented women, past and present, and will take place at St Peter’s Church, Westleton, at 5pm on Sunday, March 18.

The concert will include works by Fanny Mendelssohn, who in her lifetime and beyond, went by the name of Fanny Hensel, so that her impressive compositions did not overshadow those of her husband. Others celebrated include ‘Hidden’ French writer – also in her centenary year – Lili Boulanger, plus exciting living composers like Carlotta Ferrari, Ana Fernandez and the Suffolk composer, Bridget Cousins.

Seraphim’s director, Vetta Wise, who has hand-picked the works to be performed from eminent composers throughout the world, said: “Virginia Woolf observed that women were anonymous for most of history.

“It is a gift that we have the opportunity to share the wonderful works composed or arranged by women, from medieval nuns to modern day independent voices, and it is an honour to give them the due acknowledgement and presence they deserve.

“So many of these women played important roles in families, religious orders or their own social circles, but ownership of their talent was seemingly denied and suppressed.

“It is truly surprising how so many absolutely amazing works have been ‘dumbed down’ or got ‘lost’ under the radar over the centuries merely because their creators were not permitted a real voice in society.”

As well as the unique a cappella sound of Seraphim’s nine incredible voices, the celebration will include accompaniment and solo performances by renowned local pianist, Karen Smith.

Tickets (£13.50 including post-concert refreshments) are available now from Westleton Stores and the box office 07763 527239 or by emailing tickets@seraphimvoices.uk