The First Nations Composer Initiative is dedicated to the 

to the encouragement and propagation of American

Indian* First Nations, Alaska Natives, Indigenous music and 

musical traditions in all of its forms, and in the appreciation, 

understanding, and facilitation of all Indigenous music for

future generations of Indigenous Peoples and for the enjoyment

of audiences everywhere and in all media.

Those who are producing quality work beyond the traditional

framework are frequently isolated from each other and from

major presenting organizations.  There are also very few 

composers who have had wide experience with the field, 

and no established mechanism for mentoring the next

generation.

Clearly there is a need to build infrastructure for American 

Indian composers and musicians and to facilitate the 

integration of their work into the wider cultural and artistic

framework.  Native American composers and musicians of 

all ages, interests and abiliities need to have access to 

information and opportunities, collaborate to ensure

that future generations gain composition skills and the 

chance to express themselves creatively, and facillitate

ways for their music to be heard by a wide audience.

Over the last century, American Indians have successfully 

codified unique Indian expressions in painting, sculpture, 

dance, theater, and literature.   Only recently have American Indians

embraced music to this degree, and have begun to fully

express themselves within all possibilities that lie in

music. 

Likewise, American Indians have experienced a rebirth

in and an enthusiasm for participation in their traditional

music, resulting in a growing relationship between

traditional and contemporary music, resulting in a growing

relationship between traditional and contemporary music

throughout Indian Country.  This relationship is very unique

and is creating an entirely new  palate of exciting musical

possibilities, as well as important challenges.  Through the

presence of the First Nations Composer Initiative, we wish to

help create opportunities for Amerian Indians to lead the way

in providing the solutions to these possibilities and challenges,

and strengthen their relationships with the musical world abroad.

Therefore, we establish the First Nations Composer Initiative to

address these needs and concerns. 

* The First Nations Composer Initaitive's interchangeable use

American Indian and/or Native American, recognizes, and is

inclusive of, all of the Indigenous peoples of the Americas.