Toby Martin

Dr Toby Martin is a Senior Lecturer and Program Leader in Contemporary Music Practice at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, part of The University of Sydney. He holds a PhD, BA(Hons), and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA). His research focuses on cross-cultural music collaboration, Australian country music history, and Aboriginal music studies. Martin is also a practicing musician, releasing nine albums as a solo artist and with the band Youth Group.

His research explores music’s role in addressing cultural identity, colonialism, and social inclusivity. Notable projects include co-leading two Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery Projects: 'Hearing the Music of Early NSW (1788-1860)' and 'Policing Australian Popular Music'. His publications span books, peer-reviewed articles, and exhibitions, including the 2024 Cambridge book Cross-cultural collaboration in popular music.

Recent work analyzes music’s societal impact, such as the 2025 Current Issues in Criminal Justice article on Sydney drill music’s criminalization. Martin’s teaching emphasizes practice-led research, blending artistic creation with academic inquiry. He has curated exhibitions like Songs From the River and Hearing the Music of Early NSW, showcasing music’s historical and cultural significance.