2015/2016 Year in Review
What a year it’s been! The AWFC has taken a leading role in the much publicized diversity conversation occurring in Hollywood and beyond. Our efforts to increase the visibility of women composers within the industry have included the addition of women to discussion panels and presentations during major festivals and conferences at:
- Cannes International Film Festival
- Krakow Film Music Festival
- San Diego Comic-Con International
- Game Developers Conference (“GDC”)
- Soundtrack Cologne
- California Copyright Conference
- Fimucite-Tenerife International Film Music Festival
- …and more!
The visibility from these events has generated growing coverage of women composers with articles featured in Emmy Magazine, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety and Alliance for Women Film Journalists.
Our culminating effort in this year took shape with The Women Who Score: Soundtracks Live, an orchestral concert through Grand Performances. With the partnership of The Film Music Society and White Bear PR, and the support of numerous sponsors, including support from major studios like Warner Bros, Walt Disney Pictures, 20th Century Fox, and Sony Pictures. The resulting project highlights the work of 20 of the industry’s leading women composers. Read Billboard Magazine for more of the story.
And finally, to punctuate the importance and success of our first year, a wonderful honor has been bestowed upon the AWFC President, Laura Karpman. In July, Laura was elected to the music branch of the Board of Governors for the Academy for Motions Picture Arts and Sciences. As a founding member of the AWFC, it is clear that Laura’s visionary passion for diversity will be a valuable addition to this institution.
What’s Next
We’re off to a great start and there are no plans to slow down. As we look ahead to the next year, our primary goal is to continue our influence, driving the industry conversations on diversity and championing the inclusion of creative women in media. Among the ideas we’re considering for development over the next year include establishing an annual membership meeting & networking events in Los Angeles, a salon-style discussion series and possibly a mentorship program, plus our ongoing annual brunch during the Sundance Film Festival. Honoring the achievements of women composers featured at Sundance. With over 110 women composers joining the AWFC over the past year, we have a wealth of talented and passionate members who wish to be engaged in more inclusive conversations and activities.
Thank You!
The acknowledgement and support for AWFC’s mission has been amazing. Our mission has been confirmed with a swell in global membership that exceeds 110 female composers with credits spanning multiple media disciplines. The women composers, supporting members and donors who have joined with AWFC prove that there is a true need for advocacy, education and an on-going dialog regarding the inclusion of women in all media outlets. To these ends, we sincerely thank you for your continued encouragement and support. Together, we are powering positive changes.