This collection investigates the historical under-representation of Black composers within the choral canon by curating a diverse selection of non-idiomatic compositions. Editor Marques L. A. Garrett compiles works spanning from the sixteenth century to the contemporary era to provide a structured introduction to this repertoire. The anthology serves as both a corrective to historical omissions and a platform for highlighting significant voices in choral music.

Experts and choral directors identify this anthology as a foundational resource for diversifying performance repertoires. The collection is frequently cited for its academic rigor and its success in expanding the historical understanding of choral music beyond traditional Western canons.