Dr. Lisa Urkevich Speaks at Forum in Germany

Dr. Lisa Urkevich, professor of musicology and ethnomusicology at the American University of Kuwait (AUK) was invited to speak at the Berlin AGYA/Ethnologisches Museum/Humboldt Forum entitled “Access to Waxes” in Berlin, Germany. The event featured leading world experts who presented work surrounding the Arab collections of the Berlin Phonogramm-Archiv, which is part of the UNESCO Memory of the World Program (World Documentary Heritage). The collections consist of historic field recordings of chants, music, and linguistic material from different Arab regions. 

Dr. Urkevich discussed the significance of safeguarding intangible heritage like music, especially today in the context of Arabian cultural tourism and economic outlooks. She emphasized the relationship between history and heritage and the need for verification and scholarly rigor when determining ongoing traditions. Dr. Urkevich explored the shared practices between Western and Islamic scholarship, noting that Muslim scholars have always placed great emphasis on textual criticism and therefore have provided a historical precedent for authenticating regional heritage. She concluded by stating that since heritage unites people with a common past, generates community dignity, attracts outside interest, and instills respect within visitors for other cultures, it is important that the intangible traditions of the Arab world be protected, and that the narrative be accurate. 
 

AUK Professor of musicology and ethnomusicology, Dr. Lisa Urkevich, in Berlin