Singing Down the Barriers: A Guide to Centering African American Song for Concert Performers

Singing Down the Barriers is a pedagogical guide for singers, singing teachers, students, and administrators that provides historical context for African American song, examines the culture of academic institutions, and provides strategies to foster integrated communities and incorporate Afrocentric music into the canon. It is a seminal resource for higher education, community music programs, private studios, and beyond and will help support DEI initiatives for vocal music programs.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The importance of fostering cultural humility, diversity, and community dialogue in vocal music education has never been more pressing. Singing Down the Barriers provides a valuable resource for readers from all ethnic backgrounds, offering a deeper understanding of the historical and cultural barriers that have hindered the exploration, programming, and performance of repertoire by composers from the African diaspora. Authored by Emery Stephens and Caroline Helton, this pedagogical guide is designed to assist singers, singing teachers, students, and administrators in creating sustainable and brave spaces for critical conversations on race, equity, and American music.

The book is divided into three parts:

Part One: Historical Context for African American Song
This section provides a comprehensive overview of African American song from the 19th century to the 21st century, exploring its evolution, influences, and cultural significance. It sheds light on the challenges and struggles faced by African American singers and composers throughout history, as well as the contributions they have made to the world of music.

Part Two: Examining the Culture of Academic Institutions
In this part, the authors examine the culture of academic institutions and provide a framework for positive change. They discuss the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in vocal music education and offer strategies to promote these values within academic settings. The book provides practical insights and tools for administrators, faculty, and students to create inclusive and supportive environments for all students.

Part Three: Strategies to Foster Integrated Communities
The third part of the book focuses on strategies to foster integrated communities that can explore this repertoire with respect and mutual support. It provides practical ideas for incorporating Afrocentric music into the canon, promoting cultural exchange and collaboration, and creating opportunities for diverse voices to be heard. The book also offers ways to address systemic exclusionary teaching practices in vocal music and promote equity and inclusion in the field.

Singing Down the Barriers is a seminal resource for higher education, community music programs, private studios, and beyond. It will greatly support DEI initiatives for vocal music programs by providing a comprehensive and accessible guide to promoting cultural humility, diversity, and community dialogue in vocal music education.

In conclusion, the time is ripe for fostering cultural humility, diversity, and community dialogue in vocal music education. Singing Down the Barriers offers a valuable resource that empowers readers to understand the historical and cultural barriers that have hindered the exploration of African American repertoire. By promoting DEI initiatives and creating inclusive and supportive spaces for critical conversations, we can work towards a more equitable and inclusive future for vocal music education.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 226 x 151 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538169926