Conductor Marin Alsop has launched #PurpleBaton, a global social media campaign calling for greater representation of women conductors and music directors. Presented in partnership with the Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship (TACF), the initiative runs throughout March 2026 to coincide with National Women’s History Month, with artists and organisations worldwide invited to share images and videos featuring a symbolic purple baton.
“The #PurpleBaton movement signals to the world support of women conductors on the podium, and women in leadership roles across all disciplines,” Alsop said. “Those who take part promise to be active allies in shaping a future rich with possibility.”
The campaign responds to persistent gender imbalances across the sector. According to the Donne Foundation’s 2023–24 report Equality & Diversity in Global Repertoire, only 10.1 per cent of chief conductor or music director roles worldwide are held by women.
Alsop first introduced the campaign in 2025, when more than 100 conductors and organisations participated, including major orchestras, conservatoires and internationally recognised conductors. Supporters of the 2026 initiative may purchase a purple baton via batonz.com/purplebaton and join the campaign using the hashtag #PurpleBaton.
The movement builds on Alsop’s long-standing commitment to supporting emerging conductors. Founded in 2002, the Taki Alsop Conducting Fellowship has provided mentoring, coaching and career support to 42 women conductors, with fellows currently holding 32 music director or chief conductor positions internationally.
For more information, visit marinalsop.com/projects/purplebaton and takialsop.org
