One of the most daunting tasks any conductor faces is the selection of repertoire. Essentially, by selecting one piece the conductor is rejecting every other piece. In the past several years, several factors have influenced conductors to begin programming more works by women and BIPOC. Of course, 6-12 band directors regularly consult their state's list as they prepare for their concert band festivals. If the piece isn't on the list, they must choose another. State lists have power that extends beyond their original intent:
- Publishers—Publishers are directly impacted based upon sales, and pieces on state lists sell. Publishers may choose which composers/compositions to include in their catalog based upon the likelihood of inclusion in state lists.
- Distributors—useful as they make decisions about how many copies of a piece to have on hand and which music to promote
- Collegiate Music Education Professors—useful as they guide students to learn the repertoire they will conduct as teachers one day
- Conductors—useful as conductors at all levels make programming decisions for concerts, not just for concert band festivals
By adding the best music available to state lists, we are positively influencing the entire wind band community by introducing more voices into the ecosystem.
Regardless of why you are here, we are glad you are and hope these resources are helpful to you.
Listen to some new music in our Gallery.