Olivia Pierce
Summer URG
Please provide a brief summary of your research.
The goal of my research project was to develop an educational resource document that would equip musicians to perform Black & African works in a culturally appreciative rather than appropriative way. I developed this document through conducting archival research, holding one-on-one interviews with Black artists, and performing qualitative ethnographic analysis of performance venues and events in Minneapolis and Chicago. I then co-produced a performance in New York City with Keepsake House, a collective for independent artists, where I introduced a completed draft to performers and audience members to gauge the document’s accessibility and utility.
What made you initially interested in researching your project in particular?
In 2022, my high school choir reached out to commission a choral arrangement of my original song “X-RAY,” which centers racism and police brutality. When I traveled home to direct the choir which was primarily white, the students expressed fears of cultural appropriation. After discussing this with the director, we realized that we needed to equip the performers with an educational background and historical context to effectively portray the message of the music. This experience motivated me to create a resource that would equip musicians with the tools to perform Black cultural works in an appreciative rather than appropriative way.
What made you interested in pursuing (interdisciplinary) research more broadly?
My experiences with the Emerging Scholars Program made me interested in pursuing research in general. I’ve found research in the humanities to be very engaging, from Musicology to Art History and Performance Studies. I have really enjoyed archival work as well as in-person interviews because I’ve been able to combine my personal passions and experiences with research, which makes my work more fulfilling and educational.
Describe your experiences with research thus far. Was it tricky? What skills do you think you’ve gained?
The hardest part of my research has been adapting my findings to make them more accessible beyond the world of academics. This project taught me that vulnerability and authenticity allows you to build authentic connections with others and share what you’ve learned in a productive way.
Any tips or advice you have for students similar to you that are interested in pursuing undergraduate research?
You can absolutely conduct creative research that is still academic. I would recommend collaborating with others, because this will allow you to learn from and connect with other people in your field.
Do you have a podcast/documentary/piece of shareable media related to your research?
The livestream to the Sankofa show can be viewed here! https://www.keepsakehouse.com/shows/sankofa
If your (speaking) voice were an instrument, what do you think it would be?
A harp
What was your favorite childhood story (written, spoken, or film)?
Sikulu and Harambe: By the Zambezi River
What was a memorable interaction that you had on campus this week?
I saw somebody dressed as Perry the Platypus for Halloween!