This is a global original podcast from Classic FM.

Welcome to Holloway Prison.

The year is 1912, and that lady's sitting in the corner. look, you can't see it because this is a podcast, but use your imagination, please. That lady sitting in the corner is Ethel Smythe, one of the most successful and groundbreaking composers in history. Yet, here she is, locked in prison. How did this happen? How did

someone famous for writing bars end up behind them? That's what we're going to find out today.

But before we get into that, we have to ask, who exactly was Ethel Smythe. Well, I think I'll let her introduce herself.

I'm Ethel Smyr best composer alive, even though I died before 45. You've probably heard of others,

but you haven't heard of me, a symptom of the patriarchy. My music was met with no respect.

Don't care because I have a sufferer yet. So take a set to relate

to the magic of the Bowson's mates. The coolest dame on the west side. I'm Ethel, Ethel, Ethel, Smive.

Hello and welcome to David Williams' Marvelous Musical Podcast. And you've guessed it. Today we're looking at Schubert.

No need joking. We're finding out all about pioneering composer Dame Ethel Smyth.

But Mr. Williams?

Oh, hello. It's Timmy the Victorian chimney sweep. What's the matter, you incorrigible little scamp?

I was wondering, Mr. Williams, sir, who is Ethel Smife?

Flipping heck, Timmy, listen. I just said we're about to find out. Have you got soot in your ears or something?

Oh, sorry, what was that? I can't hear very well because I have soot in my ears.

Just get out that chimney. It won't clean itself. Of course, Mr. Williams.

Chim-chim, terrain.

Ethel Smyth is one of the true unsung heroes of classical music.

She was a trailblazer.

Why was that?

Well, it's because she was...

...