The blog will pick a word of the week, to share & explore the selected word. Here’s an expression for the word – inclusivity. “Music is the universal language of mankind” – H.W. Longfellow.
Classical composers incorporate diverse musical traditions, instruments & languages from worldwide cultures into music forms. Tan Dun combines Chinese folk traditions & Western orchestration with the ancient instrument bianzhong. Gabriela Lena Frank, a Peruvian American composer’s music explores her multi-cultural identity by blending Western classical techniques with Latin American sounds. Jennifer Higdon, a Pulitzer prize winning composer openly shares her identity & writes accessible, emotionally open music. When we make space for all voices, the harmony becomes more human.
Some composers design music experiences for neurodiverse audiences or create compositions in collaboration with musicians of under-privileged communities. Soundabout Inclusive Choir creates inclusive singing environments for people of all abilities, leaning toward contemporary classical. Drake Music makes music accessible to specially-abled musicians, using adaptive technology & inclusive composition techniques. Community Based Composition projects bring in non professional musicians or local communities to co-create music, performed by professional ensembles. When we design music spaces for all, everyone finds their song.
Participatory composition projects by composers like David Lang or Paul Rissmann involve amateur voices alongside professional performers. Sphinx Organisation is focused on uniqueness & diversity in classical music. New Music USA funds & promotes inclusive music projects. Ethel String Quartet collaborates on inclusive & community based music. The Chineke! Orchestra is Europe’s first majority Black & ethnically diverse orchestra, showcasing under-represented composers. Inspiring music rooted in themes of inclusion, diversity & community engagement. “In diversity, there is beauty & there is music” – Maya Angelou.
