Emily Schwitzgebel will join Theory/Composition as Assistant Professor of Music and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Fall 2025. Her research focuses on both the cognition of music and how we use music as a means of communication and her approach to music analysis is informed by a deeper understanding of both society and technology. 

Schwitzgebel holds a degree in music theory and composition from the College of Wooster (B.M.) and music theory from the University of Massachusetts Amherst (M.M.). Graduating with a Ph.D. in Music Theory for Northwestern University this spring, she brings an impressive publication record and a wealth of experience in teaching and learning. 

Schwitzgebel’s interest in listeners’ perceptions of musical events and their expectations of music is the subject of her graduate study. She says her approach to music analysis is informed by a deeper understanding of both society and technology. 

“Teaching music theory has allowed me to reflect upon my own experiences in engaging with music theoretically, and consequently, to approach difficult topics creatively,” says Schwitzgebel. “To this end, I draw on my research expertise in teaching music theory, thus bridging the gap between scholarship and pedagogy.”

Cherisse Williams will join the school in Fall 2025 as Assistant Professor of Music Industry Studies.

A native of Brooklyn, New York, Williams has a Doctor of Musical Arts in Voice Performance and a Master of Business Administration in Music Business from the University of North Texas. As a professional singer, Williams performed the title role of Cendrillon (Marie) in Viardot’s Cendrillon with Opera Arlington, the role of Manuelita (Pépito) with The Dallas Opera’s Educational Outreach and has played the role of Micaëla (Carmen) and Adina (L’elisir d’amore) with the UNT Opera, Queen of the Night in The Magic Flute and Gretel (Hansel and Gretel) with Once Upon an Opera, Nannetta in the Midwest Institute of Opera’s production of Falstaff. 

Williams’ interests/specialties include music business education, personal branding, strategic marketing and development. As assistant professor of music, Williams says she will teach students how to merge artistry with entrepreneurship, empowering them to thrive in today’s competitive music industry.

“I am very excited to join the School of Music Music Industry Studies program because of its strong commitment to preparing the next generation for 21st-century music careers and its dedication to experiential learning. It is such a tight-knit community, and the minute I walked through the doors, I felt like I was a part of this wonderful family,” says Williams. “As an opera singer, music industry educator, and arts administrator, I encourage musicians to be multifaceted and pursue various passions. I love that the School of Music allows students to explore and create their own paths to success.”