Michael Frishkopf

Michael Frishkopf is a Professor and Director of Graduate Studies in the Department of Music at the University of Alberta, and Director of the Canadian Centre for Ethnomusicology. He also holds an adjunct professorship at the University for Development Studies in Ghana. His academic journey includes a BSc in Mathematics from Yale University (1984), MA in Ethnomusicology from Tufts University (1989), and PhD in Music from UCLA (1999). His primary roles include teaching ethnomusicology courses (e.g., MUSIC 148, MUSIC 465) and leading research initiatives in music and global health, soundscapes, and Islamic ritual studies.

Education:

• BSc Mathematics, Yale University (1984)
• MA Ethnomusicology, Tufts University (1989)
• PhD Music, UCLA (1999)

Research interests span ethnomusicology, Sufi music, sound in Islamic rituals, music and global health, machine learning applications, and social network analysis. He founded the West African Music Ensemble (1999) and Middle Eastern Music Ensemble (2004). His work bridges disciplines including anthropology, computer science, and public health.

Key projects include the Autonomous Adaptive Soundscapes initiative for ICU patients, Music for Global Human Development (promoting health in Ghana, Liberia, and Ethiopia), and Music, Sound, and Architecture in Islam. He has published over 100 works and received awards such as the 2020 Edmonton Interfaith Advocate Award and 2018 Community Connection Award.

Grants include funding from SSHRC, CFI, and the Fulbright Foundation. He advises numerous collaborative projects and serves on boards like the Egyptian Center for Culture and Art. His research emphasizes participatory action research, particularly using music as a tool for social change and health promotion.

Labs/Teams: Canadian Centre for Ethnomusicology (CCE), Genetic Music Collective, TransCultural Orchestra. Current projects include AI for Sound Societies and Mindful Social Listening for student mental health.