Fay Hield

Professor Fay Hield is a Professor of Ethnomusicology at the University of Sheffield's School of Languages, Arts and Societies. She holds a PhD from 2010 titled 'English Folk Singing and the Construction of Community'. Her work bridges academic research with practical engagement in folk music, emphasizing accessibility and community-building.

• Education: PhD in Ethnomusicology (2010)

Her research focuses on folk music traditions, community engagement, and cultural heritage. Current projects include the UKRI-funded Access Folk Project addressing barriers to folk singing participation, and Modern Fairies, reinterpreting folk tales for modern audiences. She has led participatory research initiatives like Soundpost, advocating for inclusive folk music activities.

Award-winning musician and performer, Hield tours internationally and collaborates with artists through bands like The Full English and The Hurricane Party. Her work has been recognized with accolades such as the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and FATEA Tradition Award.

• Awards: Multiple awards including Best Album (2014), Tradition Award (2013), and Horizon Award nomination (2011)

She advises PhD students exploring topics like contemporary folk traditions and instrumental manuscripts. Her research often employs co-production methods, ensuring community voices shape outcomes. Projects like 'Folk Club Culture' with Paul Mansfield analyze social dynamics in music spaces.

Active in academic leadership, she serves on editorial boards and as an external examiner for music programs. Her work spans publications in journals like Ethnomusicology Forum and Folk Music Journal, alongside public engagement through BBC broadcasts and festivals.