AJ Kluth

AJ Kluth is a full-time Lecturer in the Department of Music at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU), College of Arts and Sciences. He holds a PhD in Ethnomusicology (Systematic Musicology Specialization) from UCLA. His interdisciplinary work focuses on post-1950 music, experimentalisms, popular music, and decolonization of music study. He teaches courses like Engaging Post-Postmodern Musicology and Decolonizing Music Study.

Education: PhD in Ethnomusicology (UCLA 2018), MA in Humanities and Social Thought (NYU 2013), MM in Jazz Saxophone (DePaul 2006), BA in Applied Music (UW-Green Bay 2003).

Research emphasizes global music discourse re-visions, prioritizing inclusion and accessibility. Notable projects include Toward a Different Kind of Horizon (2023), a collaborative event with Moor Mother and Lonnie Holley, fostering interdepartmental engagement. Awards include the Baker-Nord Center Grant (2023) and UCLA Regents Fellowship (2013–2015).

As a saxophonist, he performs with Broadway tours (e.g., MJ: The Musical) and local ensembles like Me: You. His discography includes releases on OA2 and Astral Spirits records.