Course Overview

The Ethnomusicology program at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is designed to explore the cultural, social, and historical contexts of music across the globe. Housed within the Department of Ethnomusicology at the Herb Alpert School of Music, the program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining music theory, anthropology, and cultural studies to understand music as a universal human expression. Unique features include access to extensive archival resources and opportunities for fieldwork in diverse musical traditions.

Career Prospects

Graduates of this program are equipped for careers in academia, cultural preservation, music production, and international arts organizations. The program fosters skills in research, analysis, and cross-cultural communication, preparing students for roles that bridge music and societal impact.

Key Faculty and Staff

Notable faculty include distinguished scholars and performers in the field of ethnomusicology, with expertise in regions such as Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Specific names and current roles can be verified through the university's official department directory.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

UCLA offers access to the Ethnomusicology Archive, one of the largest collections of world music recordings and materials in the United States. The program also benefits from partnerships with cultural institutions and performance ensembles, providing students with hands-on learning opportunities through concerts, workshops, and collaborative projects.