Welcome ALYSSA BARNA

Welcome ALYSSA BARNA, Assistant Professor of Music Theory

Alyssa Barna, assistant professor of music theory

Alyssa Barna joins the faculty from the Eastman School of Music, where she earned her PhD in music theory. Her current research centers on the study of form in popular music.

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE CLASS?

A theory class, of course! I took a form and analysis course during my sophomore year of my undergraduate program. This course broadened the applicability and scope of what music theory and analysis could do with music of all kinds. That professor became my first theory mentor.

WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU WILL PUT ON A SHELF IN YOUR OFFICE?

The textbooks for Theory 1 are already on my shelf—I’m ready for you, students! Next, I will definitely get some speakers so I can immerse myself in listening.

WHAT IS ONE OF THE BEST CONCERTS YOU HAVE EVER BEEN TO?

I attended the “A Concert for New York,” a concert featuring the New York Philharmonic, during which they performed Mahler’s Symphony no. 2 on the tenth anniversary of September 11, 2001. I grew up in the NYC area and remember the tragedy, so it was an incredibly moving experience of remembrance that I will never forget.

WHAT ASPECTS OF LIFE IN MINNESOTA ARE YOU MOST AND LEAST EXCITED ABOUT?

I am excited to live in a vibrant metropolitan area that appreciates and invests in the arts, culture, and communities. As for unfortunate qualities, I think most might say “the winters,” but I moved here from upstate New York, so I’m ready!

Read more about Professor Barna at z.umn.edu/barna.