Current Students in Theory of Music

Crimes, Neil
(4th year)
ncrimes@sas.upenn.edu

My current research is centered on the nature of silence in music, focusing on its ubiquitous relationship to the voice. My other main interests, in temporality and repetition (especially in the writings of Heidegger and Nietzsche), also tie into this study. In previous work, I have focused on Messiaen’s use of pre-composed chord tables, and long-range tonal coherence in Beethoven’s late quartets--with a particular emphasis on Schenkerian analysis. My research is funded by a UK Thouron Award.

Fiol, Orlando
(4th year)
ofiol@sas.upenn.edu

My research interests focus on authenticity and stylistic differences between Cuban popular music and international Latin-American salsa, concentrating on how specific musical markers are charged with ethnic, economic and sociopolitical realities.

Valnes, Matthew
(6th year)
valnes@sas.upenn.edu

My research interests include popular music, cultural studies, diaspora, and the connection between popular music and religion. My dissertation focuses on improvisation and live performance in funk music, examining how both impact genre, and the complex relationship between live performance and community formation.