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“Intentional Diversification of Repertoire in Ensemble Programs“
Introduction
The process of selecting repertoire is one of the most crucial, impactful tasks for band directors. Directors must take into account numerous factors, such as: the ensemble’s strengths and weaknesses, the artistic merit of the composition, the composer, the background or programmatic nature of the work, pedagogical impacts of the work, the concert program, among others. Though the pool of composers is widely diverse, women are drastically underrepresented in the field of composition (Bakers & Biggers, 2018; Creasap, 1996; Mabry, 2009. This was made especially evident in Baker & Biggers study in 2018, which analyzed the lack of female composer representation on state ensemble repertoire lists. Of 1,167 total works for wind band, only 35 selections (3%) were composed by women (Bakers & Biggers, 2018). This lack of representation on state lists encourages band directors to either program pieces that are not by female composers, or only program the select few presented by the state. Over time, this creates a cycle of band directors programming the same pieces, with little room for expanding the repertoire that students are exposed to. Though efforts have begun to arise to strengthen the presence of female composers in concert band programming in recent years, a division still exists within the wind band field. Band directors may decide to program works without regard to a composer’s gender or background, arguing that other variables may be more important. Though there are numerous factors involved in ensemble programming, it is essential that band directors make an intentional effort to program artistically valid music by female composers.
Position-Paper-Presentation