Events

Co-Sponsored by: University of Illinois Chicago and Northwestern University

In 2010, 2012, 2016, 2021, and 2024, LGBTQ+ Studies and Music Education Symposia I – V brought together students, teachers, community educators, musicians, and researchers to discuss research, theory, and practice centering LGBTQ+ perspectives and experiences. These ongoing symposia encourage, promote, and disseminate discourse on the intersections of LGBTQ+ topics and music education. 

Held during Chicago Pride 2027, this sixth symposium further explores how queer interests operate within music education through research, curriculum, teacher preparation, and the musical lives and careers of LGBTQ+ music students and teachers. Of particular interest is scholarship that centers trans and gender expansive (TGE) perspectives, examines policy and political climate for LGBTQ+ people, and advances LGBTQ+ advocacy.

Trans and gender expansive musicians, scholars, and activists will be featured as part of the Symposium proceedings as a provocation for participants to consider the ramifications of the current political climate on the lived experiences of TGE students and educators and the responsibility of music education to respond to this crisis.

REGISTRATION FEES

Early Bird Registration (by May 15, 2027): $250
Regular Registration (May 16, 2027 on): $300
Students: $75

REGISTRATION LINK COMING SOON

Symposium Planning Committee:

• Sarah Bartolome – Northwestern University (co-chair)
• Stephanie J. Gregoire – University of Illinois Chicago
• Emma Joy Jampole – California State University, Stanislaus
• Stephen A. Paparo – University of Massachusetts Amherst
• Evan Powers – University of South Carolina
• Isaac Raven – Kingsburg Joint Union High School District
• Melanie E. Stapleton – Northwestern University
• Brent C. Talbot – University of Illinois Chicago (co-chair)
• Beth Tuinstra – Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
• Tiffanie D. Waldron – University of Illinois Chicago