Diversity & Inclusion

School of Music Inclusion Statement

The School of Music welcomes all qualified students interested in auditioning for and/or participating in music ensembles, courses, programs, and opportunities regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or ability.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

The School of Music exceeds many similar collegiate programs in its embrace of creative diversity. Students, faculty, and guest artists have continued to present a broad array of music, with salient representation of music by traditionally underrepresented groups. In addition to creative/artistic diversity, our School of Music has endeavored to enhance a sense of belonging and psychological safety in the School, and to message inclusivity in various outreach activities.

Our curriculum includes courses that cover music by women, Jazz, African American music, Ethnomusicology, World music, Popular music, Rock & Roll, Hip Hop, Country music, Disco, Brazilian music, and other interests beyond the European canon.  

Now going into its 30th year, the African American Music Heritage Institute features live performances, presentations, and workshops from noted African American artists and composers. AAMHI exposes UofL students to contemporary artists specializing in musical styles including the gospel, jazz, and classical traditions, and it engages pre-collegiate students in the community in its performances–as participants and/or audience members–that typically occur in Comstock Hall. Directed by Professor AAMHI has long been a staple of the School’s diversity programming. Most recently, AAMHI presented the Legendary Count Basie Orchestra as its Spring 2024 featured ensemble.

Our School of Music has also partnered with and/or been supportive of diversity interests around the city and region, including the West Louisville Performing Arts Academy, the Latin Music Awards, and AMPED.