Richard Randall

Dr. Richard Randall is an Associate Professor of Music Theory at Carnegie Mellon University's School of Music and holds a faculty appointment at the Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition and the Neuroscience Institute. His research focuses on the cultural, technological, and psychological foundations of musical experiences, with particular emphasis on auditory perception, cognitive processes, and the intersection of music with social and political contexts. He directs the Music Experience Lab (MEL), which explores interdisciplinary questions about music's role in human life, including projects centered on Romani musicians in the Balkans and the ethical dimensions of music technology. Randall co-founded the Listening Spaces Project, examining how technology shapes contemporary musical practices, and led initiatives like the Pittonkatonk festival, advocating for music as a public good. His work bridges neuroscience, media studies, and ethnomusicology, supported by grants such as the Rothberg Research Award and NIH funding.

• Affiliations: School of Music, Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Neuroscience Institute
• Key Projects: MEL, Listening Spaces Project, Romani Drummers Project, Pittonkatonk
• Education: (Not explicitly stated in provided text)

Randall's research spans neuroimaging studies of auditory perception (e.g., auditory scene analysis) to cultural critiques of digital music distribution. His lab emphasizes collaborations with artists, activists, and technologists to address systemic issues like cultural representation and labor rights in music. He co-edited 21st Century Perspectives on Music, Technology, and Culture and developed educational programs such as the Young Musicians Collaborative, fostering community engagement through music.

His recent publications explore topics like predictive coding models of musicality perception and the impact of low-level auditory features on grouping strength. Awards include the NIH grant T32-MH19983. Randall also leads the experimental ensemble Bombici, merging Balkan folk traditions with electronic improvisation.

• Grants: Rothberg Research Award, NIH grant T32-MH19983, Fine Foundation, Sprout Fund
• Labs/Teams: Music Experience Lab (MEL), Listening Spaces Project, Bombici collective