Sara Haefeli

Sara Haefeli

W. W. Norton & Company has selected Dr. Sara Haefeli to edit the 11th edition of A History of Western Music , along with the accompanying Norton Anthology of Western Music . Recognized worldwide as the cornerstone text and anthology for the study of music history, these books have shaped countless musicians and scholars over several generations.

Dr. Haefeli brings to this project a reputation for forward-thinking scholarship and innovative teaching. Her work has placed a particular emphasis on critical pedagogy, diversifying curricula, and rethinking the Western canon to include voices and narratives often overlooked in traditional music history.

The forthcoming 11th edition is set to highlight a broader spectrum of cultural, social, and historical perspectives. Central to the new edition will be a special focus on "active pedagogy," engaging students more deeply in the learning process by fostering greater interaction with primary sources and a problem-based pedagogical approach. These strategies are designed to enrich the educational experience by supporting critical thinking, active learning, and independent inquiry among music students.

Elizabeth Medina-Gray

Elizabeth Medina-Gray

Elizabeth Medina-Gray, Associate Professor of Music Theory, delivered the keynote address at the North American Conference on Video Game Music at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH, in April, 2025. Her talk was entitled "Pitch, Repetition, and Language in the Pitch-Centered Speech Sounds of Two Video Game Characters."

Deborah Rifkin

Deborah Rifkin

Deborah Rifkin, Professor of Music Theory, presented in June 2025 at the national grading conference hosted by the Center for Grading Reform. Her presentation “Wading Into Ungrading in the Music Classroom: A Case Study,” describes alternative assessment strategies she has implemented in her classes to reduce anxiety and stress, while improving equity.