At J.W. Pepper, we dream of a future in which all composers’ music can be studied, performed, and enjoyed—and one in which everyone has the opportunity to develop an appreciation for vocal and instrumental music. Fortunately, many excellent organizations are working to make this future a reality.
In this blog, we’re spotlighting groups that advocate for Black composers and composers from other underrepresented backgrounds. Visit their websites to learn more about their work and how you can get involved, and go to our new Black History Month page for lists of repertoire by contemporary Black composers, resources for teaching music students about Black history, and more.
Rising Tide Music Press
Shop music published by Rising Tide Music Press through J.W. Pepper.
Music by Black Composers (MBC)
Shop resources from MBC:
Music by Black Composers, Violin Volume 1
Coloring Book of Black Composers
Composer Diversity Database
BIPOC Voices
African Diaspora Music Project (ADMP)
…And We Were Heard
My Score, a Service of J.W. Pepper
J.W. Pepper’s My Score service gives independent composers a platform to promote and sell their music through the world’s largest sheet music network. We make My Score composers’ music available in both hard copy and digital forms, and composers receive generous royalties for sales while retaining full ownership of the copyrights to their work. Everyone who writes music can self-publish through My Score and have their compositions reach music directors and educators everywhere.
Increased diversity in the world of music composition benefits everyone. Giving composers from marginalized backgrounds an equal opportunity to promote their work fosters innovation, enriches the repertoire, and allows a greater number of people to see themselves represented. We hope that a few of these organizations can help you diversify your music library, promote your work, or learn something new.
