Co-Op Notebook

When composer Aaryn S. Ricucci-Hill began writing Epitaph, they weren’t setting out to make a statement—they were answering a call. That call, as it turns out, was over 2,000 years old.Built around the Seikilos epitaph—the oldest known complete piece of notated music—Epitaph takes an ancient Greek melody and places it in a strikingly modern, yet reverent, harmonic frame. Written for solo organ, th

Meet Maya. She’s a clarinetist in college, excited about her future but unsure how to break into a music world that often feels closed off.Meet Alex. He’s a composer with big ideas and limited opportunities, trying to get his music heard without waiting years for a commission from a major orchestra.Meet Dr. Rivera, who runs a community college ensemble that dreams of performing fresh, relevant rep

It’s one of the most common (and most important) questions we hear:“What happens when I pay for my membership?”We believe you deserve a clear answer. Unlike a traditional membership that just keeps the lights on, your dollars fuel new music.The Cooperative DifferenceIn most arts organizations, membership dues are used to cover perks, receptions, or administrative overhead.But in a cooperative, the

If you’re a musician, you already know: the system is stacked against us.Artists create the work. Students dedicate their lives. Communities hunger for music. But who holds the power? Not us.We have an industry where boards, administrators, and gatekeepers control the money, the repertoire, the opportunities — while the very people who make the art are left scrambling for scraps.It’s not just unfa

From the Classroom to the Stage: How Institutional Membership Expands Access and OpportunityIt’s the end of a long teaching day. You’re in your office, thinking about your students. Not just the ones who nailed today’s jury rep or aced their theory quiz — but the ones who keep asking “What’s next?”The students who are nervous about entering the field. The ones searching for meaning and relevance i

The music industry faces a range of challenges — financial, structural, and systemic — that limit access for composers, performers, and educators from underrepresented communities. Traditional commissioning and publishing models favor a select few, leaving many talented voices unheard. New Works Project exists to change that. We are not just another music organization—we are a cooperative force fo

Thank you for supporting new music through the New Works Project. Whether you are a musician, educator, student, or simply passionate about the future of music, there are several ways you can join us and help bring new works to life.Donate DirectlyThe most straightforward way to support is through a direct donation. Every contribution helps us commission new music, support composers, and provide r

If you're exploring opportunities to engage with new music you’ve likely come across the terms "commission" and "consortium." While they both involve the creation of new music, they differ in structure, and participation. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand these two important aspects of new music creation.What is a Commission?A commission is a process where an individual, organization, or e

As musicians, our instruments are more than just tools of expression; they are vessels for our unique voices. But unlike spoken language, our artistic voice is one we consciously craft. We choose how and what we communicate through the music we play, from the phrasing in our interpretations to the repertoire we select.The power of this choice is profound. In every note, we make decisions about how

If you're exploring opportunities to engage with new music you’ve likely come across the terms "commission" and "consortium." While they both involve the creation of new music, they differ in structure, and participation. Here’s a breakdown to help you understand these two important aspects of new music creation.What is a Commission?A commission is a process where an individual, organization, or e

Imagine a world where anyone can help create new music. Our donation-based consortium model makes this possible—connecting musicians, composers, and audiences to commission brand-new works together. This revolutionary approach is changing the landscape of music creation. Here’s how it works and why it matters.What is a Consortium?A consortium is a collaborative effort where multiple individuals, e

Imagine turning your passion for music into a movement—one that commissions new works, builds connections, and empowers composers. Through fundraising-based consortiums, you can make that vision a reality. New Works Project believes commissioning music is more than creating new works; it’s about fostering collaboration, innovation, and opportunity within the music community. Here’s how fundraising

by Kristine Dizon, PhDAs someone who has navigated a career in classical music, I often reflect on the privilege and barriers embedded within our society and industry. To this day, I find it baffling how deeply rooted exclusivity persists in classical music. Historical incidents—like the New York Philharmonic’s stark lack of gender and racial diversity until recent decades—highlight this problem.

As a musician, your recital program is a reflection of your artistry and values. Diversifying your repertoire can showcase your range, connect with broader audiences, and bring fresh perspectives to the stage. Here are seven actionable tips to create a recital program that truly stands out while supporting a more inclusive and vibrant music ecosystem.1. Explore Underrepresented ComposersSeek works