A message from the founder—

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Our Vision Statement at Stories We Sing is: “Connecting storytelling composers with storytelling ensembles.” While this vision is fairly straightforward, the ideas that serve as the foundation for this publishing house run a bit deeper.

 

Let me explain: I believe that the 'Age of the Diva'—the age of the solo performing artist, the age of autotune, the age of artificial digital accompaniment and shallow content—is quickly, and thankfully, coming to a close. And despite fears surrounding the promulgation of AI and increasingly “fake” music, I believe our future as musicians, composers, and performers is brighter than ever. I believe we are on the cusp of a new renaissance—not just in music, but across all disciplines, aesthetic and otherwise.

 

Audiences are craving that which is real—for that which is genuine and honest. You can already sense that change is in the air. Programming from today’s most innovative music leaders has begun to shift—away from octavos and toward storytelling; away from standard repertoire and concert works, and toward programmatic music.

 

What I believe will be most profound about this coming renaissance is that it does not seek to cast off the yoke of the past. Rather, in my best estimation, it points toward a marriage of old and new—of that which is tried and true with that which is bold and innovative. Stories We Sing Publications is, in part, a response to these winds of change. Our goal is simple: to tell stories—authentically, and with deep respect for the traditions and legacy from which we come.

 

For me, my roots are Detroit, Michigan—and I am proud to share that Stories We Sing is a homegrown Detroit brand. Detroit is on fire, experiencing its own powerful story of renewal. And fittingly, at its heart stands the Renaissance Center—a symbol of rebirth and reinvention. There is no place I could be more proud to be from, nor a place I could be more proud to call home, in this moment.

 

While our catalog is currently small, as beginnings often are, one thing I can promise is this: that this publishing company will always aim for quality over quantity; for the very best music we can deliver. If you are a composer with stories to tell, connect with us and join our team. If you are an ensemble seeking to captivate your audience, take the time to tell stories in your programming—whether through our music or the music of others.

 

Thank you in advance for being part of our story—and for keeping your eye on what lies ahead.

 

-John Vovak, 4/7/2026