The coronavirus pandemic has vastly changed where we go and how we interact with each other. Such adaptation, done to save lives, has resulted in thousands of performances cancelled; the security of monthly paychecks dissipated. In this this new environment, we will highlight soloists and ensembles whose artistry we hope will continue to fill listener’s ears and hearts during this pandemic, and some new ways musicians are connecting with their colleagues and audiences.

As Black Music Month concludes, some old and new recordings of Black composers we highly suggest you add to your collection.

With this edition of HTB’s What to Read, we’re switching to a bimonthly schedule and including a recordings section. We hope you continue to visit to hear more about the exciting additions to literature on and recordings of music by Black composers.

For Black History Month, recently and newly released material on Black music history and thought.

Looking for new/upcoming books on music studies and Black history? Look no further.

What does the world of recorded music by Black composers look like? Which labels release their music? How are they marketed? Are they recorded by international stars, regional, or local groups? This essay is a look at albums that feature Black composers’ works and known methods of financial support to get those albums to the public.