Post-Doc, Music
British Academy Postdoctoral Fellow
St John's College
About
My current research investigates the changing cultural significance of music in early modern England by examining the myths and stories which informed beliefs about music. Focussing on the period 1500-1700, the study traverses the social, intellectual and artistic upheavals identified as crucial to the birth of modernity, as well as the transition musicologists perceive between the so-called Renaissance and Baroque. I explore the interaction between learned and popular ideas of music and these ideas were created, communicated and altered through the retelling of established myths and the invention of new fictional stories.
My PhD thesis investigated the role of music in the politics of the court of Elizabeth I, exploring music's role in constructing the royal image and noble identities, or in influencing the Elizabeth's policies and patronage. I examined music in royal progresses, court tournaments, masques and plays, as well as anecdotal stories of music-making in more private and intimate contexts. This project was interdisciplinary in its aims, furthering our understanding of the workings of politics in the distinctive context of Elizabeth's female rule, and deepening our knowledge of the political purposes music could serve in Renaissance courts.
I am also co-convenor of the Sixteenth-/ Seventeenth-Century Music Network (SSMN) which, with the support of the Royal Music Association, held its first event in September: a study day entitled 'Re-examining the Transition for the Renaissance to the Baroque'.
In my spare time I can be found playing the flute, singing in choirs or handbell ringing, as well as helping to lead a local Guide group.
Contact Information
| Address: | St John's College |
