Without ensemble directors consciously seeking works by diverse composers, our concert programs do not reflect the demographic make-up of our communities.

The USA’s largest music distributor website advertises just 61 pieces by female composers in their 4,632 work Band Concert & Contest catalog.

The Texas PML for High School Band includes 1.8% works by male composers of color, 2.8% works by white female composers, and no works by female composers of color.

Kentucky’s list is most diverse with 6.7% underrepresented composers. 93.3% of this list is composed by white male composers.

Idaho’s list has no works by women or composers of color.

… and we were heard’s mission

We are giving underrepresented composers a platform to have their music heard. Composers that submit works to … And We Were Heard are matched with top-notch
ensembles and engage in collaborative recording sessions. The resulting audio tracks are hosted on our site along with innovative ideas of how to support diverse voices in music.

Listen to our latest recordings, sign up to participate as a composer or recording ensemble, check out our databases and resource page. Join our cause in supporting underrepresented composers by engaging in intentional programming.