FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – The Indiana University Jacobs School of Music is pleased to announce the appointment of Calder Hannan as assistant professor of music in music theory, effective Aug. 1.
Hannan finished his dissertation in music theory, which explores tempo play in metal music from several perspectives, in spring 2024 at Columbia University, where he is currently teaching. His research focuses on the experimental edges of popular music, especially metal, and he is especially interested in finding ways for institutional music theory to productively collaborate with fans and practitioners.
“As we continue to build our new degree programs in music business and music production through our recently established Music Industry Department, we gladly welcome Calder Hannan,” said Abra Bush, David Henry Jacobs Bicentennial Dean. “His ongoing experience with experimental popular musics will be a great addition to our growing curricula.”
Hannan writes and plays guitar in two New York City metal bands, Florid Ekstasis and Aphelion Entity, and shares his research for a general audience on the YouTube channel "Metal Music Theory."
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Hannan as a music theory professor specializing in popular music,” said Noriko Manabe, Music Theory Department chair. “His innovative research moves beyond assuming a unitary listener to considering multiple perspectives of composers, performers and fans. He seamlessly blends theoretical concepts of rhythm and meter with emic views gleaned from interviews with musicians and his own experiences as a metal guitarist. He also has a popular YouTube channel, and we look forward to his outreach into popular-music communities.”