Forward Through Circles
New works fund
Invest in the Future of New Music
For 20 years, Yarn/Wire has been bringing bold new music to life, commissioning over 200 works performed around the world. But traditional funding models often fall short—covering only composer fees while leaving the rest of the creative process unfunded. Rehearsals, collaboration, experimentation, and performance are just as vital as the composition itself, yet they rarely receive dedicated support.
That’s why we’re launching Forward Through Circles, a New Works Fund designed to change this. By raising $50,000 over the next 12 months, we’ll ensure that artists—especially those from underrepresented backgrounds—have the time, space, and resources to develop groundbreaking music. This fund supports not just commissions, but the full artistic process, from early experimentation to the final performance.
What Does Forward Through Circles Support?
Your support makes it possible for projects like Yarn/Wire Currents, Be Holding, and The Sound of The Forest to thrive—deeply collaborative works that require time, rehearsal, and exploration. Unlike traditional funding, which often stops at the creation of a score, Forward Through Circles ensures that artists receive the resources they need to fully realize their vision.
This also allows us to work with a wider range of artists, including those who don’t use traditional notation. By expanding access to different creative voices, we’re shaping a more inclusive and innovative future for contemporary music.
How Does It Work?
Most commissions follow a standard model: a one-time fee for a finished score. But this overlooks two essential elements of making new music:
1. Supporting artists who create outside of traditional notation – Some of the most exciting voices in music don’t work with conventional scores, requiring a more flexible, collaborative process.
2. Funding the full journey of a new work – Composing is just the beginning. Rehearsals, experimentation, refinement, and performance are all crucial to bringing a piece to life.
Forward Through Circles bridges these gaps, giving artists the time, space, and support they need to develop music that pushes boundaries.
Join Us: How to Give
We invite you to be part of this exciting new chapter. Every contribution—big or small—helps sustain the future of contemporary music by funding the creative process.
With a gift of $1,000+, you’ll be recognized as part of our Founders Circle, with a special listing on our website and project materials, plus exclusive behind-the-scenes access to rehearsals and creative development.
Every donation matters—your support directly impacts the artists shaping the next generation of new music.
Help us reach our $50,000 goal and ensure that bold, risk-taking music continues to thrive. Join us today.