Andrea Giolai

Andrea Giolai is a Lecturer in Ethnography and Performing Arts of Japan at the Leiden Institute for Area Studies. His research spans sensory ethnography, sound studies, and Japanese performing arts, with a focus on sonic heritage and its relationship to cultural memory.

Education:

• Conservatory Diploma in Modern Flute (2009)
• MA in Japanese Studies, Ca’ Foscari University (2011)
• Joint PhD in Area Studies, Leiden University & Ca’ Foscari University (2017)

His work explores sound as a cultural artifact, emphasizing affective embodiment, environmental loss, and the reconstruction of ancient musical practices. Current projects include studies on environmental loss and Silk Roads musical heritage, funded by NWO.

Scientific Awards:

• JSPS Postdoctoral Fellowship (2017-2019)
• Japan Foundation Dissertation Research Fellowship (2015-2016)
• NWO Research Grant

He supervises PhD candidate Beste Sevindik and has taught courses on Japanese performing arts, sensory ethnography, and sound heritage in Asia. Giolai’s research integrates fieldwork with archival studies, notably at Kyoto University and Kyoto City University of Arts.