Ode to Rosy Wertheim | Internationally celebrated composer and socially engaged, but then came the war

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She was active internationally, in Paris, New York and Vienna. She felt an affinity with the French impressionists Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel.

She composed orchestral works, chamber music, choral works and songs. She also wrote music for amateurs and children. Despite living at a time when women were often opposed in the classical music world, she managed to gain recognition as a serious composer.

Wertheim was very involved in social issues. She gave free lessons to workers and children and she was active in the women's movement.

During WWII, as a Jewish woman, Wertheim had to go into hiding. Her courage and perseverance during that time enhance her legacy as a strong, inspiring figure in Dutch music history.