معرفی
E. Cecelia Conway is a Professor in the Department of English at Appalachian State University with significant cross-appointment in Interdisciplinary Studies, specializing in folklore and Appalachian cultural studies. Her work centers on documenting African American musical contributions to Appalachian traditions, particularly the banjo's historical trajectory from Africa to the mountains.
- Duke University: BA and MA in English
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill: PhD
Conway's research explores the confluence of African diasporic and Appalachian musical practices through ethnographic fieldwork, media production, and curation. She investigates how oral traditions, instrument craftsmanship, and performance styles reflect cultural resilience and exchange, with emphasis on banjo history, fiddle traditions, and ballad keepers. Her methodology integrates archival research with community engagement to preserve endangered musical heritage.
Her publications from 1995-2008 reveal consistent focus on material culture and oral history, evolving from scholarly monographs like 'African Banjo Echoes in Appalachia' toward multimedia documentation including documentaries, curated exhibits, and sound recordings. These works collectively form an interdisciplinary archive highlighting African American artistry in shaping Appalachian music, with increasing emphasis on public-facing scholarship through events like the Black Banjo Gathering.
- Project Director for National Endowment for the Arts grant for Black Banjo Gathering Reunion & More (2010)
- Fellow in Residence at International Center for Jefferson Studies, Monticello (2009)
- NEH African Roots Seminar Fellowship (2009)
- ASU Foundation Fellowship (2008-2009)
- Virginia Foundation for the Humanities Fellowship (2008)
- National Endowment for the Arts grant for African Roots of Old Time Fiddle & Banjo Video ($20,000) (2005)
- Smithsonian Folkways grant for Black Banjo Songster CD #2 (2005)
- National Endowment for the Arts grant for Black Banjo Gathering 2005 Video (2005)
- Black Banjo Songster Rufus Kasey Video grant (2005)
Conway has secured over $20,000 in NEA funding and multiple fellowships from NEH and humanities councils to support documentary production and cultural events. While student advising isn't documented, her collaborative projects involve musicians, filmmakers, and institutions like the Center for Black Music Research. Current initiatives include the Black & Global Banjo Roots Concerts website and preservation work with Appalachian artists, reflecting ongoing commitment to community-based scholarship beyond traditional academic boundaries.
