Research and Development Department

Mission

The University of Music (SUM) operates across three primary research areas that align with the institution’s strategic priorities concerning music training: pedagogy, performance, and music theory/composition. It is committed to contributing to the development of new critical knowledge in music practice and scholarship, while fostering close inter- and transdisciplinary collaborations.

Research

The SUM embraces a wide definition of what it means to conduct research in music. This ranges from historical musicology to practice-based research, via composition and performance. This research is enriched and in dialogue with other fields that have a strong presence in our institution, showing deep engagement in interdisciplinary practices. Specialities around health and wellbeing, cultural theory, societal issues and inclusion, pedagogy and computer science are in continuous exchange within our various projects and their methodologies. The general aim is a multifaceted reflection on the role of the arts in society.

Current fields of interest

  • the historically informed approach to music
  • music in communities
  • the health and well-being of musicians
  • interdisciplinary practices
  • creative coding tools and communities
  • critical practices and discourses in performance and improvisation
  • embodied, relational and collaborative investigations
  • multichannel electroacoustic composition
  • new approaches to mixed music practice

These fields intersect with each of the three main training areas: pedagogy, performance, theory and composition. In each of them, researchers contribute to the development of knowledge, in constant dialogue with music practitioners and other specialists both inside and outside of the University of Music.

Relationship with the SUPSI

The SUM is an active part of the SUPSI and is committed to developing inter- and transdisciplinary research projects at cantonal, national and international level.