New data, new methods? Sources on ladies’ salon orchestras in Europe, 1870-1918

This article addresses the problems that pertain to macro-historical data in music research. By presenting examples from recent research on European ladies’ orchestras of the late nineteenth century, I aim to establish how large data sets could be used in a meaningful way. First, I shall present an overview of source materials. Second, methods for analyzing concert programmes will be critically assessed. Third, the possibilities of visualizing concert tours will be explored. Finally, special attention will be paid to questions regarding social class and gender.