Swan Strings

Another one. 🏆✨

Behind the Strings: Amplifying Black Feminism in Guitar Culture just took home Best Documentary at the Texas Short Film Festival in Austin.

This film started with a mission—to shift the narrative and amplify Black women in guitar culture—and to see it continue to be recognized on this level is powerful.

What began as a story rooted in our community has grown into something much bigger than us. And we’re still building.

Thank you to everyone who has supported, shown up, and believes in this work. This is for the culture. 🦢✨

We’re excited to announce that our film “Behind the Strings: Amplifying Black Feminism in Guitar Culture” will be screening at the Texas Short Film Festival in Austin this weekend. The film is being considered for Best Documentary and Most Inspirational Film awards.

After our first Behind the Strings: Music Symposium this past weekend, it feels great to hit the road to Austin again for another film screening. Thanks to everyone who came out last week, see you in Austin! 🤠🎸

🎸✨We’re honored to have Dallas-based vocalist, guitarist, and educator Kierra Gray Thomas as part of Behind the Strings: Music Symposium — amplifying the legacy and living impact of Black women in guitar culture.

Kierra will be assisting in our free guitar workshop, sharing her knowledge and artistry with the next generation. You’ll also see her featured in the film Behind the Strings: Amplifying Black Feminism in Guitar Culture, and live on stage performing alongside Jess Garland — recreating a powerful scene from the film in real time.

Beyond the stage, Kierra’s work spans projects including King Kie, We Them Grays, Cure For a Paranoia, and The Institute, reflecting a dynamic and evolving presence in Dallas’ music scene.

Her work embodies what this gathering is all about — community, lineage, and transformation through music.

Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience.

📍 Saturday, March 21 | ⏰ 12 PM–6 PM🎶
Free + open to the community (registration required at swanstrings.com)

Happy Birthday to these beautiful Black women in music! We are grateful to have you all on the team! 🎸