Recently a music scholar rediscovered a Christmas carol from 1785: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks By Night. It was composed by Jane Savage (1752-1824) and is the earliest known Church of England hymn by female composer. I had not heard of this early classical era musician, so I am sharing some of her Beautiful Music today. You can listen to her 1785 Christmas carol, sung by the Girls Choristers of Ely Cathedral Choir, as well as her Six Rondos, published in 1786, and played by Sharon Monis.
Jane Savage — Whilst shepherds watched – YouTube
Jane Savage (1752-1824) – Six Rondos for Clavichord or Piano Forte – YouTube