[ PANEL DISCUSSION : Cultivating Inclusion in Sound, Music and Computing]

ABSTRACT

Moving beyond foundational discussions of diversity, equity, and inclusion (EDI), we aim to curate a collection of actionable strategies, evidence-based methodologies, and tangible tools derived from both academic inquiry and professional practice. Our focus is on harnessing the embodied knowledge and lived experiences of those working within these spaces to foster a more inclusive and equitable environment for artists, producers, executives, aspiring professionals, and academics alike. This special session will begin with a curated panel discussion, featuring a diverse range of voices and innovative perspectives in sound, music, and computing. The organisers will form the panel based the submitted position statements, ensuring a broad representation of areas of interest and expertise. The panel discussion will be followed by small group focused discussions on particular areas of interest, strategically designed to generate actionable strategies and practical insights. Other contributors may be invited to lead or facilitate these subsequent small group discussions, guiding participants through the collaborative generation of practical solutions. Following the special session, the organisers intend to prepare an edited volume or special issue on the topic. This publication will further explore the critical themes of diversity, equity, and broad participation within sound, music, and computing, amplifying our collective impact in shaping a future that truly reflects and celebrates global creativity and talent across these evolving fields.

PANEL DISCUSSION

TUESDAY 4 NOV at 10:00 – 11:30
Pool Street Cinema

PANEL MEMBERS

JOHN LEVACK DREVER

Otoloci

John is a sonic thinker, researcher, and practitioner exploring the cultural, ecological, and experiential dimensions of sound, listening, and hearing. He is Creative Director of Otoloci, an ambiance and soundscape consultancy, and leads Working Group 1 for COST Action CA23145, Architectural and Urban Ambiances of European Cities He is co-directing the new Cambridge branch of LAURA (Leverhulme Trust Aural Diversity Doctoral Research Hub) where he is a Visiting Fellow with Cambridge Digital Humanities. He is a Professor Emeritus of Goldsmiths, University of London.

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ANNA BRAMWELL-DICKS

University of York Dr Anna Bramwell-Dicks is a Senior Lecturer in Interactive Media and Head of Creative Technologies within the School of Arts and Creative Technologies at the University of York, UK. Her interdisciplinary research is centred on how new technology, media, and music can improve health, well-being, and accessibility. Her work uniquely blends her background in Electronics and Music Technology with Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), applied psychology, and creativity. Her research spans several key areas, including Accessibility and Disability Studies, where she investigates the representation of disability and chronic/mental illness in various storytelling formats, such as film, TV, video games, and immersive media. Additionally, her work on Multimodal and Multisensory Systems explores interfaces that go beyond visuals, incorporating audio, haptics, and other modalities, with a special interest in how audio can be used to influence a user’s behaviour or experiences. She also focuses on the application of technology, media, and music in the context of mental health and wellbeing, which has involved projects like creating music collaboratively with adults who have severe mental illness. Alongside her research, Dr Bramwell-Dicks teaches a wide range of modules, covering everything from computer programming and web design to empirical research methods and statistical analysis, as well as dedicated courses on disability and accessibility. 🔗

JUDE BRERETON

University of York Prof Jude Brereton is Professor of Audio and Music Technologies in the School of Arts and Creative Technologies at the University of York, UK. Previously she was Chair of the EDI committee and Admissions Tutor for the Department of Electronic Engineering at York. For over 20 years she has been active in seeking to improve inclusion and diversity in audio engineering and creative technologies education. Recently her work has focused on the skills development and inclusion in the UK screen industry as Co-Director of the Screen Industries Growth Network (SIGN). She is currently Co-Lead on the AHRC funded ReFrameVP project which is co-creating interventions that transform how equality, diversity and inclusion are practiced in the UK’s evolving film and television industry. Her research in audio centers on the analysis and perception of music performance in real, virtual and augmented acoustic environments; she is particularly interested in the role of immersive sound to enhance performer and listener experience and interaction. As a musician and audio/acoustics specialist, her research and teaching is inherently interdisciplinary. Jude finds the greatest inspiration in collaborating with musicians, scientists and engineers and loves to work across and beyond disciplinary boundaries to gain a deeper understanding of our human relationship with sound and audio. 🔗