Representation matters.  In recordings, in publications, in performance halls, and in classrooms.

We were thrilled to learn about a new project to encourage more discussion and exploration of works by women in classrooms through music theory curriculum.  The project and website, titled Music Theory Examples by Women, is a comprehensive and thoughtful resource to make it easy for all educators to include examples that would carry students from beginning music education through principles of chromaticism.

The two contributors to the website are Molly Murdock and Trevor Nelson, both PhD candidates at the Eastman School of Music.  Read more about their own experiences tackling the problem of representation of women’s voices in music curriculum in the Thoughts section of the website.

The site currently includes examples by 35 women composers throughout history – from Francesca Caccini (1587-1641) to Kaija Saariaho (b. 1952).  Educators explore examples by composer or by concept covered.  The website includes a downloadable score, listening examples (usually in Spotify and YouTube), and related examples.  It really couldn’t be simpler for any music educator to find and incorporate a core music theory principle that also demonstrates the diversity that exists throughout the history of Western Art Music.

The database, which is newly launched, is a fantastic start – and they are looking for more works to include!  Visitors to the site are invited to submit a piece for review to be included in the database.  What a great opportunity for collaboration among scholars and advocates of women’s work in music!

Be sure to check out the website, and stay on top of their work by following the Facebook page and Twitter feed.