1. What courses or areas of expertise do you specialize in within the music department, and how do they benefit our students?

Specialization in music theory, music cognition, and computer-based studies.

• I focus on how students learn to compose, how they listen, and how they create music. My expertise in computers allows us to analyze these processes in-depth.

• I offer a strong background in music theory, covering various traditions, including classical, Mediterranean, Middle-Eastern, West African, and others. This broad exposure enriches students' understanding of different scales, modes, and rhythmic traditions.

• Even if a student is not pursuing composition, I encourage hands-on experience in the compositional process. This engagement fosters a deeper connection with the music, making students more versatile and insightful musicians.

2. How do you approach teaching and mentoring students in the music program to ensure their success academically and artistically?

Holistic approach to teaching:

• My teaching goes beyond technique. I emphasize preparing students to face the challenges of today’s rapidly evolving world, including the impacts of AI and technology on music.

• I maintain strong opinions about how computers are transforming the workplace, particularly in creative fields. It’s essential for students to understand these developments, not just from a technical standpoint but also from an artistic and ethical perspective.

3. Are there any unique opportunities or resources that our music program offers that you believe students should be aware of?

Highlight specialized research and resources:

• We offer unique opportunities for students interested in the intersection of music, technology, and cognition.

• Students can explore the creative process from both a theoretical and practical perspective, working on how people compose, listen to, and experience music.

• These resources help students engage with both traditional and modern methods of music-making, providing a more comprehensive education.

4. Can you describe any ongoing research or creative projects you're involved in that might be of interest to students looking for extracurricular opportunities?

Ongoing research in music cognition and technology:

• I am currently working on projects that use computers to study music creation and learning processes. For example, we are developing an intelligent tutor system that provides real-time feedback on students' compositions, focusing on counterpoint and other pedagogical methods.

• Another project involves expressive timing and audio-based analysis, which helps students understand complex performance practices in music, such as interpreting Bach and Chopin.

• By involving students in these projects, I aim to connect theoretical concepts with practical applications, offering them valuable extracurricular experience.

5. How do you stay updated on the latest developments and trends in the music industry, and how does this knowledge benefit your teaching and advising?

Staying informed on AI and technology trends in music:

• I closely follow advancements in AI and what it can (and cannot) do in the realm of music composition and performance.

• My goal is to raise awareness among students about the critical role musicians play in assessing and engaging with technology. We cannot afford to resign our humanity and creativity to machines.

• My research touches on philosophical, ethical, and methodological questions surrounding music and AI. For example, I’m developing a prototype system that combines technology with human creativity, rather than replacing the human element.

• These insights directly inform my teaching, ensuring students are well-prepared to engage with the future of the music industry in an intelligent and thoughtful way.