The Frances Clark Center is pleased to announce our new publication Weaving Sounds: Elementary Piano Pieces by Native and Indigenous Compose
Connor Chee and Renata Yazzie have worked with the Frances Clark Center and 8 other Indigenous composers to compile a book of elementary piano pieces. Additionally the publisher has agreed to give put up to 1000 copies to Native communities, native students, and Native music programs, available here.
“As a Diné musician, this collaboration with the Frances Clark Center holds profound meaning for me. Growing up, there were Indigenous musicians creating incredible work, some of whom I’m honored to call colleagues today, but their contributions weren’t widely represented. This project changes that—not just by showing Native pianists that they belong in the world of piano, but by offering the world, for the first time, authentic pieces by Native composers from diverse tribes. These are not the stereotypical caricatures created by non-Native composers in the past, but works that share the richness and diversity of our heritage. It’s a step toward greater understanding and appreciation of who we truly are.” – Connor Chee
“Historically, piano literature, including pedagogical works, have glaringly omitted the voices of Indigenous composers and their music. From the time I was a young Diné piano student until I began teaching other young Diné musicians, the available repertoire remained relatively unchanged, until now. Ahéhee’ nitsaago—many thanks—to the folks involved in this project who are committed to elevating and sustaining Indigenous voices within music education and by doing so, are encouraging Native musicians in their own educational journeys. The pieces in this book offer a sonic tapestry that weave together Indigenous knowledges and histories, the contemporary livelihood of our ways, and our hope for the future in an accessible and engaging manner for beginner pianists of all backgrounds.” – Renata Yazzie
