Foreword to Kaleidoscope by Patricia Kleinman

Foreword to Kaleidoscope by Patricia Kleinman

Foreword

The engagement of new audiences, encompassing a spectrum of generations and social backgrounds, remains an ongoing endeavor for classical music in general and contemporary music in particular. Kaleidoscope rises to the challenge by extending an invitation to prospective audiences who may feel excluded by a musical program that too narrowly represents gender, geography, culture, and history. This inclusivity not only diversifies the musical landscape, but also contributes to the cultivation and dissemination of professional role models and icons for new generations of women composers, especially (although not only) from countries that have traditionally been left out of the classical Western canon.

The musical work of female composers must be spread through recordings, concerts, and the publication of scores to guarantee their social accessibility and an awareness of this wealth of inspiration for the future. Filling this gap is a fundamental task today. May the emerging generations of women composers be able to identify with the protagonists of this album and their creative achievements. Let them see how very possible it is to be a woman, a composer, and to have your work recorded on a leading record label as played by such an outstanding pianist with a confirmed international career as Isabel Dobarro. Let these achievements inspire them to dare to pursue their musical career.

Kaleidoscope is a significant stride toward the normalization of the programming of music composed by women and the integration of contemporary non-European music into the 21st-century musical lexicon. Such initiatives will invigorate the musical composition profession for new generations of women composers from regions too often marginalized from the classical Western canon. Broadening our horizons is a fundamental step toward both gender equity and the enrichment of contemporary music. Let us celebrate this step forward while reaffirming our commitment to the work that still lies ahead.

Patricia Kleinman