As the WCC Music Ed Lab continues its theme of "Gender and Music", Dr. Regina Carlow presented to the student body yesterday on the presence of gender stereotypes in choral music today. Though my paper for this class focuses on gendered stereotypes in instrumental music, there were several overlapping themes. One theme, of course, is the male presence in music to begin with. Though it has been established that most composers and *famous* performers (whether it be conductors, instrumental, or vocal musicians), are men, there is always that stigma that being in music is effeminate or "gay." This is further instigated in public schools, as more often than not extra-curricular music programs, or even music classes/ensembles within the school day, compete with sports and other activities deemed more "appropriate" for the male sex. (This will be revisited).
A social stereotype that seems slightly less of an issue, mainly because we either don't come across it or question it often, are cross-gendered voicing. Dr. Carlow describes her tenure as conductor of a Gay and Lesbian Mixed Chorus and their production of "Little Shop of Horrors". Breaking from the norm, the role of Dentist was played by a woman. As this culture was a very progressive one, there was very little controversy surrounding this cross-gendered role. (separate from a 'pants role')
Why is there such controversy about cross-gendered roles? Does gender dictate musicality in certain roles? Is there something inherent or biological that gives better insight to musicality depending on the role? Or are we missing out on new musical perspectives due to social stigmas?
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