Course Overview

The Folklore and Ethnomusicology program at Indiana University Bloomington is a renowned interdisciplinary course that explores the cultural expressions of communities through folklore, music, and oral traditions. Offered through the Department of Folklore and Ethnomusicology, the program emphasizes the study of cultural heritage, performance, and the social contexts of expressive forms. Students engage in fieldwork, archival research, and theoretical analysis to understand global cultural practices.

Unique Features

The program is distinguished by its dual focus on folklore and ethnomusicology, offering students a comprehensive approach to cultural studies. It provides opportunities for hands-on learning through fieldwork projects and access to extensive archival resources. The department is known for its commitment to preserving cultural traditions and fostering public engagement through community-based initiatives.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are equipped for careers in academia, cultural preservation, arts administration, and public sector roles. The skills gained in research, analysis, and cultural documentation are highly transferable to roles in museums, non-profits, and media industries.

Key Faculty and Staff

The department features esteemed faculty with expertise in diverse cultural traditions, including specialists in African, Latin American, and Appalachian studies. Faculty members are often involved in international research projects and publications that contribute to the global understanding of folklore and music traditions.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Students have access to the university’s extensive archives, including the Archives of Traditional Music, one of the largest university-based ethnographic sound archives in the world. The program also benefits from partnerships with cultural organizations and festivals, providing real-world engagement opportunities.