Help Us Create the Next Generation of Australian Big Band Music

The Unladylike Big Band creates vital space for women and gender-diverse instrumentalists in jazz. We showcase the incredible talent within our community and actively challenge the deep gender imbalance that still exists across the jazz world.

Now, we are investing in something that will leave a legacy far beyond our own stage.

We are raising funds to commission a series of brand-new compositions and arrangements written by members of the Unladylike Big Band, orchestrated for full jazz big band. These works will premiere in a spectacular live concert at the Officers Mess in New Farm on Sunday 14 March 2027.

Importantly, the sheet music will be prepared for publication and made available for purchase by schools, community bands, universities, and professional ensembles worldwide. Every dollar of profit from sheet music sales goes straight back into the composer’s pocket.

By supporting this project, you aren't just funding a single night of live music. You are expanding the catalogue of Australian big band music created by women and gender-diverse composers, ensuring these voices are represented in rehearsal rooms and concert halls for generations to come.

Why This Matters

The jazz canon remains overwhelmingly dominated by works written by men. While there are countless talented women and gender-diverse composers creating extraordinary music today, their work is severely underrepresented in educational and professional settings. Why? Simply because fewer published charts exist.

This project directly changes that.

Each commissioned work will become part of a growing body of Australian jazz repertoire available to bands everywhere. You are creating opportunities for future generations of musicians to discover, perform, and be inspired by these incredible creators.

Building a Lasting Legacy

When our audiences hear these works for the first time, they will experience something deeply special: music that would not exist without your direct community support.

But the impact will extend well beyond the band's final note. 

By making these charts accessible to professional big bands, schools, and community ensembles, we increase the visibility of Australian women and gender-diverse composers. We create more opportunities for their music to be played, studied, and loved.

Together, we can commission ten new works, premiere them live, and build a richer, more representative future for jazz.

Thank you for supporting new Australian music.

How This Campaign Works: The Unlocking Map

Pozible operates on an all-or-nothing model. We must reach our initial base goal of $440 to keep any of the funds.

Once we clear that first milestone, the campaign is officially a success, and every extra $440 we raise instantly unlocks the next composer on our list. Let’s build the momentum and unlock all ten!

(Note: Target amounts are adjusted to include Pozible’s 5% platform fee and credit card processing fees, ensuring each composer receives a full $400 payment for their commissioned work).

BASE GOAL – $440 [REQUIRED FOR SUCCESS]

Composition #1: New composition by Zoe Atkinson

STRETCH GOAL 1 – $880

Composition #2: New arrangement by Helen Russell (Original composition by Helen Russell)

STRETCH GOAL 2 – $1,320

Composition #3: New arrangement by Peta Leigh Wilson (Original composition by Peta Leigh Wilson)

STRETCH GOAL 3 – $1,760

Composition #4: New composition by Unladylike founder/director Cassie Whitehead

STRETCH GOAL 4 – $2,200

Composition #5: New composition by Kellee Green

STRETCH GOAL 5 – $2,640

Composition #6: New composition by Ange Santamaria

STRETCH GOAL 6 – $3,080

Composition #7: New composition by Martha Baartz

STRETCH GOAL 7 – $3,520

Composition #8: New composition by Shelley Bishop

STRETCH GOAL 8 – $3,960

Composition #9: New composition by Sharon Elaine

THE GRAND FINALE – $4,400

Composition #10: Youth Composer Commission by Lizzy Harman

Disclaimer: Listed composers may be subject to change due to scheduling or unforeseen requirements.