Calíope stands on the front line in the fight against inequality and prejudice toward women, still so prevalent in the artistic world. Led by Marta Hugon, the project revolves around female talent and creativity, extending an invitation to reflection.
The story of this very special project began in 2023 with nine outstanding singers and songwriters from the Portuguese music scene: Marta Hugon (author and artistic director), Joana Alegre, Elisa Rodrigues, A Garota Não, Aline Frazão, Ana Bacalhau, Joana Espadinha, Joana Machado and Luísa Sobral. Under the musical direction of the experienced composer and pianist Luís Figueiredo, they came together to release CALÍOPE, a recorded work that culminated in a memorable concert celebrating International Women’s Day, selling out Teatro Maria Matos in Lisbon.
Calíope is an artistic creation and awareness-raising project for gender equality, created with the aim of transforming public perception of women’s role in the music industry. A distinguished group of female composers perform their own original works while simultaneously sending a powerful message of affirmation: that women can lead their own careers. More than an artistic celebration, the performances are an invitation to reflect on the importance of female representation in music and in society, often preceded by a roundtable discussion.
In 2025, to mark International Women’s Day, Calíope headlined a memorable charity concert at the main auditorium of Convento São Francisco in Coimbra, to a sold-out audience. In 2026, the project aims to continue spreading its message of female empowerment.
PRESS QUOTES
«Calíope (single), a song about leaving inner desires at the mercy of free expression, with a beautiful saxophone melody and notes that almost seem to come from a music box.»
Rimas e Batidas
“On record and on stage: Calliope celebrates women as creators.”
Rimas e Batidas
«Nine artists who unite talents in this musical celebration of female creation.»
Público