Research
This section offers a look into the research endeavors I have taken part in during my time at the Crane School of Music. My focus of research has primarily been on the influence of gender and sexuality on our modern understanding of music. I hope to continue these projects or expand upon them in new ways as I continue to cultivate my knowledge on these subjects and experience more in the field of education and performance that will influence my personal exploration of these topics.
Clara Schumann, distinguished female pianist, composer, and piano teacher.
Gender in Music
This project stems from my coursework in Music History, where I conducted research into the topic of how Classical era practices influence perceptions of gender roles in music. I explore the classical canon and how it came to be, and how modern adherence to said canon in the Western classical tradition becomes problematic when exploring subjects of gender and representation. To read more, you can find my research below.
Billy Strayhorn, openly gay American jazz pianist, composer, and arranger.
Jazz, Gender, and Sexuality
As part of my studies in a Music, Gender, and Sexuality course, specifically pertaining to music post-1800, I was able to explore my love of jazz and jazz history through a new medium. While my research in this specific topic is still scarce, I plan on expanding upon my initial findings and preliminary thoughts as my education progresses. This research also discusses various databases and libraries utilized for this form of research, discussing the pros and cons of each so that someone in a position such as mine can be informed on where to find appropriate and accurate information. To read more, find it below.
JoAnn Falletta, symphony conductor and music director of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.
Diversity in Wind Band Conducting
My largest research project as of yet has been into the field of wind band conducting. As a brass musician, someone who has vast experience in wind bands, and someone who plans on working in the field of wind band conducting, this topic speaks to me on a personal level. However, during my time at Crane, I engaged in numerous discussions about the lack of representation seen in the field, specifically noting the disproportionate number of female conductors. To explore this phenomenon, I researched the history of bands as well as the profession of conducting, and used this to make conclusions about the modern state of the field. To read more, find it below.