Several important composers, including Lou Harrison,[3] Beth Anderson,[4] and Gene Tyranny,[5] among others, contributed new scores to early issues.

Over time, Ear began focusing almost exclusively on new music with special attention being paid to Bay Area composers.

In 1975, Beth Anderson, moved to Brooklyn, NY and began publishing a version of Ear in New York, initially co-edited by Laurie Spiegel and Richard Hayman.

Starting in 1980, Ear began publishing themed issues, with occasional guest editors who were experts in the field.

[7] In order to support the increased costs of production, Ear put on a benefit concert, which lost money.