Amy Laursen

Dr. Amy Laursen serves as Assistant Professor of Horn in the Department of Music at the University of South Dakota's College of Fine Arts, having joined as Adjunct Professor in 2017 before transitioning to her current role in 2018. She maintains an active performance career as Principal Horn of the Northwest Iowa Symphony Orchestra and substitute hornist with the Sioux City and Billings Symphony Orchestras.

Her academic credentials include a Doctor of Musical Arts in Horn Performance from the University of North Texas (2015), Master of Music in Horn Performance from UNT (2008), and Bachelor of Music Education from the University of Wyoming (2006), complemented by a K-12 Music Teaching License from Wyoming.

• Doctor of Musical Arts (Horn Performance), University of North Texas, 2015
• Master of Music (Horn Performance), University of North Texas, 2008
• Bachelor of Music Education, University of Wyoming, 2006

Dr. Laursen's research bridges historical horn studies with musician health, focusing on authenticating works like Ferdinand Ries's Concerto for Two Horns while pioneering health and safety protocols for brass musicians through occupational therapy frameworks. Her scholarship examines pedagogical approaches to prevent performance-related injuries.

Analysis of her publications reveals dual scholarly trajectories: historical organology of horn repertoire and evidence-based health interventions for musicians. Her work consistently connects performance practice with physiological wellbeing, appearing in specialized journals like The Horn Call and Medical Problems of Performing Artists.

Recognition for her contributions includes:

• Professor of the Game, USD (2025)
• Belbas Larson Nomination, USD (2023)
• Belbas Larson Nomination, USD (2022)

She has secured research funding through the Rimon Commission Fund (International Horn Society, 2017-2018) and institutional grants (CTL Guest Speaker Grant and CFA Dean Grant, 2023). Her extensive masterclass circuit across 15+ states demonstrates commitment to mentoring emerging musicians through hands-on pedagogy focused on technical excellence and injury prevention.

As founding member of Trio di Velluto, she commissions new low-brass repertoire while performing at international conferences. Her collaborative work extends to orchestral engagements with the Orchestra of New Spain and regional ensembles across the Midwest.