Black Musicians Matter: Dr. Adrian Davis

Join us for a special in-person Black Musicians Matter event that's free and open to the public.

Drawing on Critical Race Theory to Explore Underrepresentation of African Americans at PWIs
Dr. Adrian Davis
University of Minnesota

This special Black Musicians Matter presentation will explore the experiences of five African American professors (specifically music professors) at predominantly white institutions (PWIs). Critical race theory is used throughout the study as a conceptual framework to create themes and to consider the institutionalized racism centralized in curriculum design, pedagogical approach, school administrative policies, and sociopolitical actions promoted by local communities and the United States government. While the social construct of institutionalized racism is operationalized in predominantly White institutions, it is conceptualized and shared through participants' stories. The research underlying this presentation connects institutionalized racism to barriers against the advocacy for (and long-term engagement of) African American professors of music.  While this presentation focuses on the experiences of music professors, attendees are encouraged to consider what other areas in the humanities lack representation and how these critical conversations can be encouraged elsewhere.

Dr. Adrian Davis is a postdoctoral associate at the University of Minnesota. His research explores themes of diversity and equity in music education, as well as K–12 music curriculum and instruction. Davis’s recently published dissertation investigates the underrepresentation of African Americans in music programs at predominantly White institutions. He also serves as the district music facilitator for Minneapolis Public Schools and as president of the Minnesota Music Educators Association.

By participating in this event, you agree to adhere to the Stan State Campus Event Protocols.