Rethinking Repertoire: Gender and Equity in Secondary Ensembles

Every repertoire choice is a curricular decision. In secondary ensembles, what we program not only teaches students about style, technique, and the traditions of the ensemble but also reveals whose voices and stories are valued and whose are not. Too often, music curricula focus on a narrow canon that favors male composers and reinforces traditional gender roles. This session explores how programming functions as curriculum, conveying messages about representation, identity, and belonging. It also demonstrates how educators can intentionally select works that broaden perspectives and support diverse student identities, as well as envision the future of ensemble music education. Through discussion and collaborative activities, participants will explore how repertoire can both reflect and reshape ideas of representation in ensemble classrooms.

Justin Daly serves as the Director of Bands at East Lyme High School, Connecticut, where he directs the marching, concert, and jazz bands. He performs trumpet throughout Connecticut, serves as a music proficiency judge for US Bands in New England, and frequently guest conducts for local community bands. He has presented professional development workshops, clinics, and lectures across New England and online. He earned degrees in Music Education (BS), Music (BA), and Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in Music Education (MA) from the University of Connecticut. He is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Music Education from Boston University.

Caroline Shadman is a graduate student at the University of Connecticut pursuing a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in Music Education. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Music Education and a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Connecticut (UConn) in 2025. Graduating as a University Honors Laureate, she completed an honors thesis exploring how gender influences musical and pedagogical decisions among secondary-level instrumental teachers. She has studied trombone with Matthew Russo, Ingram Lee, and Jose Lara.

NAfME presents this live virtual event at no charge to all as a service to the music education profession. To register, you must enter your NAfME member information or create a nonmember account. After registering, check your email for instructions. A recording of this program will be available to all registrants for one week following the live event. Members can also view archived NAfME webinars in the NAfME Academy.

The views expressed are those of the presenter; they do not necessarily reflect the views of NAfME.