Behind the Strings: Music Symposium

Behind the Strings: Music Symposium, produced by Swan Strings, is a free, community-centered gathering dedicated to amplifying the legacy and living impact of Black women in American music. Rooted in Swan Strings’ commitment to equity-centered music education, cultural storytelling, and community concerts, the symposium brings together artists, educators, and audiences to honor the gospel foundations that shaped blues, rock & roll, and soul.

Through keynote dialogue, panel conversation, a screening of award-winning film, Behind the Strings: Amplifying Black Feminism in Guitar Culture, a free guitar workshop, and a live musical tribute, Swan Strings creates space for intergenerational exchange — connecting historical lineage to contemporary artistry. The symposium reflects the organization’s broader mission: to provide accessible music education, preserve cultural narratives, and center the voices of those too often left out of dominant music histories.

More than a one-day event, the symposium embodies Swan Strings’ ongoing work to restore, recognize, and reimagine who we see — and hear — behind the strings.

Info: Led by Jess Garland, this hands-on guitar workshop invites participants to explore the foundational rhythms, techniques, and stories that shaped American music. Featuring special guest artists from the symposium lineup, the session offers an interactive learning experience rooted in gospel, blues, and the enduring legacy of Black women guitarists. Designed for emerging players and curious beginners alike, the workshop centers access, creativity, and community.

Pre-registration is required as space is limited. Guitars will be provided on a first come, first serve basis. To register, please email [email protected].

Info: Quo Johnson — Racial equity practitioner, cultural strategist, and arts advocate serving as Keynote Speaker and Panel Moderator for the Behind the Strings: Music Symposium, guiding critical dialogue on representation, legacy, and the transformative power of Black women in American music.

Info: Despite being pioneers and influencers in genres that center guitar, Black women are often removed from the social narrative around guitarists and instrumentalists.

To increase access and representation, Swan Strings partnered with Pegasus Media Project to produce a short film titled, “Behind The Strings: Amplifying Black Feminism in Guitar Culture.”

Behind the Strings is an intimate, behind-the-scenes documentary created by artist, musician, and Swan Strings founder Jess Garland. As part of her Behind the Strings brand and racial and gender equity initiative, the film follows Garland’s personal and creative journey, showcasing how she uses music as a powerful tool for healing, community empowerment, and social change.

Info: The Musical Tribute is a live, intergenerational performance honoring the gospel foundations of American music and the enduring influence of Black women who shaped blues, rock & roll, and soul. Rooted in the spirit of Sister Rosetta Tharpe and the sacred lineage of women behind the strings, the tribute weaves together guitar-driven arrangements, soul-stirring vocals, and collaborative musicianship. More than a concert, this offering is both celebration and remembrance — acknowledging the architects of the sound while amplifying the modern artists carrying their fire forward.

Info: A dynamic conversation featuring the symposium’s artists and cultural leaders exploring the gospel roots of American music and the lasting influence of Black women in shaping blues, rock & roll, and soul. Moderated by the keynote speaker, the panel connects history, lived experience, and contemporary artistry in an intergenerational dialogue.

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Host or Publisher Jess Garland