Emilie Mayer (1812-1883) was a German composer from the Romantic period who was known as the “female Beethoven” during her lifetime. Born in Friedland, Mecklenburg, she was one of the most prolific female composers of the 19th century. After studying under Carl Loewe and Adolph Bernhard Marx, she composed numerous symphonies, string quartets, piano sonatas, and other chamber works.

Mayer was particularly notable for composing in larger musical forms traditionally dominated by men – she wrote 8 symphonies and several overtures, making her one of the most significant female symphonists of the Romantic era. Her music was frequently performed in Berlin during her lifetime, though like many female composers of her era, her works fell into relative obscurity after her death.