Juliane Jones
Contemporary Kun Opera Composition
Dr.s Nathan Hesselink and Michael Tenzer
Houston
United States of America
Why did you decide to pursue a graduate degree?
In college, I developed interests in Chinese studies and musicology, which I then explored in a thesis on Musical Chinoiserie. After college, I moved to Shanghai where I took fundamental courses on Guqin, ancient Chinese music history, and Chinese opera studies. I decided to pursue a research degree at UBC in order to develop, teach, and publish musical research.
Why did you decide to study at UBC?
I chose to study at UBC because of the strengths of the East Asian Studies and Ethnomusicology programs. Moreover, I decided to pursue graduate studies in the UBC ethnomusicology program because of its interdisciplinary approach to music studies.
What was the best surprise about UBC or life in Vancouver?
During my first year as a graduate student at UBC, I've enjoyed participating in the graduate student community at St. John's College, a residential college on campus. The college organizes hikes, classes to learn to sail, and many other activities.
What do you hope to accomplish with your research?
Through understanding Kun composition within and beyond Chinese and Western compositional methods, my project will trace the historical roots of Kun composition within contemporary productions in Mainland China and on the international stage. In addition to analyzing the techniques of contemporary Kun composers as they balance tradition and innovation, the project will contribute new methodologies to music studies and will shed light on the interaction between Western Art music and Chinese music.
What has winning a major award meant to you?
The Vanier CGS program will allow me to carry out a multimedia ethnographic project. With the support of the Vanier program, I will be able to share my research with as broad an audience as possible.
What advice do you have for new graduate students?
I would encourage new graduate students to attend the many performances of the talented music ensembles at UBC.