Augusta Holmès

Born in Paris to Irish parents, Augusta Holmès was a prodigious talent who, despite the expectations placed on women of her time, pursued a serious career in composition. She studied with the likes of César Franck and produced numerous operas, symphonies, and choral works, earning both critical acclaim and the occasional scandal for her outspoken opinions and unconventional lifestyle.

Her most famous work, 'Ludus pro Patria', an ode-symphony, premiered at the Paris Exposition Universelle in 1889, cementing her reputation as a formidable composer. Her compositions were often grand in scale, patriotic, and drew inspiration from mythology and national themes.

However, despite her musical achievements and Irish lineage, there is absolutely no indication whatsoever that Augusta Holmès had any connection to Judaism. No Jewish identity, no Jewish origin, no secret Shabbos candle lighting. Her life and work are well-documented, and the topic of Jewish heritage simply does not come up.

So, while she certainly composed some impressive pieces, and broke barriers for women in music, Augusta Holmès will unfortunately not be bringing any nachas to the tribe. A composer of undeniable talent, but decidedly not a Jew.