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.
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.
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.
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.