First Biennial International Conference Music and the university: History, Models, prospects. Programme and abstracts

Abstract

[Excerpt] Welcome Address: Music has been present in European universities from the thirteenth century, with degrees being granted as of the fifteenth century, and the professionalization of musicology taking place in the nineteenth century. However, the double nature of music as art and science has granted it a specificity that not only historically marked its singularity within the organization of knowledge but also challenges its position within the mission of the university in a changing world. The institutional integration of music in higher education varies across the globe, as does the nature of the degrees offered, and the field uniquely defies established models of researching, assessing merit, and structuring careers. Furthermore, transformations in the ways in which technology and globalization have changed music creation, performance, and reception call for innovative university practices and curricula, as do societal challenges regarding issues of cultural diversity, identity, inequality, and empowerment. Within this context, Music and the University – History, Models, Prospects is aimed at extending and advancing knowledge on music in the history of universities, contributing to current issues and debates, and to prospectively theorizing its transformation and social impact. In addition to the scientific exchange, Delegates are invited to enjoy the social programme, including the piano recital by Ian Pace on Wednesday, 6 July, at 7pm in City’s Performance Space (ALG10, City, University of London), with works by Schumann and Beethoven-Liszt, as well as a jazz concert by City Locrian Collective, also held at the Performance Space on Thursday, 7 July at 7pm. The conference dinner will take place at 20:00 on Friday, 8 July, venue tbc. The Conference Committee thankfully acknowledges the support of Institute of Musical Research and City, University of London for welcoming the first Music and the University conference, and is deeply grateful for institutional support from the University of Surrey, CEHUM/ University of Minho. We are also delighted to be presenting this conference in association with the Royal Musical Association, Society for Music Analysis and MusicHE, each of which are presenting special events within the conference. [...]