The Inspiring Women of "Maestra": A Documentary

Cate Blanchett's powerful portrayal in “Tár” made such a strong impact that many thought Lydia Tár, the character she played, was a real-life conductor. She isn't. Lydia Tár is a fictional character created by writer-director Todd Field. However, many talented and passionate female conductors do exist, and they are the focus of Maggie Contreras' documentary, “Maestra.”

The Struggle for Female Conductors

In the world of orchestral music, women conductors are still a rare sight, making up less than 3 percent of all conductors globally. This is where the annual competition, “La Maestra,” comes in. It's designed to highlight the talents of female conductors and help them gain recognition in the male-dominated field.

The Film's Approach

In her first feature, director Maggie Contreras takes a straightforward approach by following a few female conductors from around the world as they prepare for the 2022 “La Maestra” competition in Paris. These women come from different backgrounds and have unique experiences and personalities, which influence their art.

The Art of Conducting

Conducting is an intricate art that involves knowing musical pieces deeply, connecting with every musician, and balancing meticulous preparation with the ability to improvise under pressure. “Maestra” showcases how these women excel in this complex, demanding role.

 Meet the Conductors

- Zoe Zeniodi: A passionate Greek conductor who struggles with leaving her twin children to work in New Mexico.

- Tamara Dworetz: An American who is balancing her professional dreams with her desire to start a family.

- Ustina Dubitsky: A Ukrainian mother competing while keeping an eye on the Russian invasion of her country.

- Anna Sułkowska-Migoń: A talented Polish conductor in her mid-20s, competing for the first time.

- Mélisse Brunet: A Frenchwoman teaching at the University of Iowa, returning to Paris with memories of a difficult past.

Each conductor has her own unique way of preparing for the competition. For example, Tamara practices on her living room rug in Georgia, while Ustina's sheet music includes colorful drawings from her daughter.

A Supportive Community

One heartwarming aspect of "Maestra" is the strong bond between these women. Despite being competitors, they support each other through the competition's ups and downs, forming a close-knit and encouraging community.

A Misstep in Storytelling

While the competition's progression is engaging, Contreras makes a confusing choice in the third act. She crosscuts between two very different moments: one conductor giving the performance of her life and another revisiting painful memories. This parallel editing can distract from both stories, particularly for the finalist who doesn't get to fully showcase her talents.

Shocking Twists and Real Challenges

“Maestra” has its surprises, especially for those unfamiliar with the classical music world. One frustrating moment is when a seasoned conductor receives feedback that she should have “smiled more” after being rejected. This shows that real-life female conductors still face significant challenges and stereotypes.

Conclusion

“Maestra” is a moving and inspiring documentary that highlights the incredible talent and perseverance of female conductors. Despite some storytelling choices that might distract from the main narrative, the film successfully showcases the artistry and dedication of these remarkable women. If you’re interested in music, gender equality, or simply love a good underdog story, “Maestra” is a must-watch.