Labels,Inequity,and Advocacy: The “Woman Composer” in the Wind Band World

Abstract

Is it time to retire the “female composer” label? While music educators would perhaps like to think society is beyond the need for such labels, gender inequity exists in programming, publisher’s offerings, and college programs. This article considers some of the arguments advanced to explain these inequities and the social/systemic biases that consideration of this topic necessarily involves. Finally, the author suggests paths and some resources for those interested in seeking out and advocating for excellent music that happens to be composed by women.