Abstract
This roundtable session investigates the value of formally and informally organised research groups and associations within academia, in the midst of a widespread crisis in the Arts and Humanities world. In recent years, long-established Music departments have been shut down while the existence of those remaining afloat is constantly threatened. The classical music industry is also under political and ideological attack, with the Arts Council dictating increasingly difficult requirements for arts organisations to meet while cutting these institutions’ traditional funding. Research groups/ organisations are becoming therefore increasingly relevant in supporting the work and the morale of researchers, practitioners, performers, members of arts organisations and their wider communities. Through presentation of the Theatrical Voice Research Centre, Early Recordings Association, British Electro Acoustic Network and Dutch Historical Acting Collective, this round table discusses networks, research and educational activities, dissemination and engagement events, as well as the body of new knowledge which is often coproduced by all the people involved in these various activities.
Dr. Barbara Gentili (The Theatrical Voice Research Centre): The Theatrical Voice Research Centre brings together researchers, performers, and cultural organisations with a passion for the human voice, from multiple socio-cultural perspectives and across different genres. As a community, we aim to overcome the boundaries between singing and the spoken word in both live and mediated settings, classical and popular idioms, Western and non-Western practices. We link comparative and historical investigations of the voice with contemporary voice training and performance, and are eager to share scholarly and performance-based understandings of the voice with the cultural industries and wider society.
Dr. Inja Stanovi (Early Recordings Association): Early Recordings Association (ERA) is an open-access resource dedicated to early recordings. Aimed at general public, enthusiasts, and academics, ERA brings together the past, present, and future of early recordings research. Members can use the platform to promote their own research interests, discover the interests of others via a searchable directory, and form connections with others in the field.
Dr. Adam Stanovi (British Electro Acoustic Network): The network connects electroacoustic composers, performers, and listeners from across Britain. It aims to generate and promote new electroacoustic music, disseminate electroacoustic music through concerts and events, and increase access to electroacoustic music (through the promotion of calls for works, events, and competitions). As the national body, BEAN aims to promote British electroacoustic music overseas. It is the National Federation Member of the International Confederation of Electroacoustic Music, an NGO Partner of UNESCO and Member of International Music Council.
Jed Wentz (Dutch Historical Acting Collective): The Dutch Historical Acting Collective (DHAC) is made up of individuals who through their experience in the performance of Early Music became fascinated by the expressive possibilities of historical acting. There is no designated leader of the group, although organisationally it is linked to the University of Leiden through Jed Wentz’s affiliation with the Academy of the Performing and Creative Arts. The goals and methodology of the Collective are not fixed, but change to reflect the trajectories of the individual members.