Forward Music Project

Forward Music Project commissions new multimedia works for cello that elevate stories of feminine empowerment. FMP directly engages with the world we live in by valuing vulnerability and unrelentless realism. Since FMP's inception in 2015, 18 new works have been commissioned. These works are performed through the lens of solo cello by FMP founder and performer Amanda Gookin, electronics, video art by S Katy Tucker, and audio interludes by the composers. In performance, Amanda sings, chants, fights, gasps, and breathes life into these new works.

Presented by The Kennedy Center, Park Avenue Armory, National Sawdust and educational programs in the midwest where young women first discover their voices through music, the message of FMP is unwavering: in the fight for radical empathy and feminine empowerment, you are not alone.

FMP also partners with humanitarian and educational organizations, expanding its reach beyond the musical realm, to embrace a better understanding of the vast experience of femininity across the globe. Partnerships included National Sawdust Student Colab, El Puente Leaders for Peace and Justice, The Dream Unfinished, The Canales Project, Vital Voices, and The Girl Project KY. 

"For elevating stories of suffering and joy. For raising awareness of injustice. For shining a light on a culture of musical-patriarchal deification. Whether you come with caution and leave with curiosity, come as a victim and find a voice, or come as an ally and feel a sense of community - I founded Forward Music Project for you.

For mothers. For sisterhood. For brave storytellers and quiet listeners. I sing, I gasp, I fight, I breathe life into the work of these fearless artists. I founded Forward Music Project for you. And you are not alone."

— Amanda Gookin, April 2020
Cellist and creator of Forward Music Project

Interested in donating to Forward Music Project? Your contribution will elevate and emancipate global stories of women and composers who engage with femininity. The composers’ stories, and the stories of others, deserve to be lifted up and heard by new audiences. FMP would not exist without individual giving, which is dedicated to FMP commission fees, FMP Presents, and FMP operating budget costs. There is no contribution too small. Thank you for your generosity!