New Zealand Musicological Society

Promoting the Study, Understanding and Enjoyment of the Musics of the World to a wide range of music lovers from academics, librarians, composers and performers to private scholars

The NZMS was formed in 1981, with the aim of advancing musicological study and research in New Zealand, and encouraging and assisting cooperation between institutions interested in musicology. It holds regular conferences and symposia which provide a forum for its members to meet, report on their research and discuss current issues.

The Society provides a list of recent publications by its members.

You can read the History of the New Zealand Musicological Society (PDF, 308 KB).

Major events in the Society's recent history have been joint conferences with the Musicological Society of Australia (MSA) in Auckland (1994), Sydney (2000), Wellington (2003) and Brisbane (2007) which attracted scholars from New Zealand, Australia, Asia, China, the Pacific, the United States and Europe.

The Society has sought a broad profile and accordingly has welcomed music lovers with a wide range of backgrounds and interests. This is always reflected in the wide range of topics covered in conference papers. Society members are engaged in musical research, whether historical, bibliographical, analytical or ethnomusicological. Although many are academics, others are librarians, composers, performers, private scholars or individuals with a general interest in the world of music.

Students of music are particularly welcome. They will be given the opportunity to gain overseas experience by reporting on and discussing their work in a stimulating and supportive environment. Travel grants are available to student members who present papers at Society conferences. Please contact the Secretary for further information about travel grants.

Being a member of the Society ensures that you are kept informed of the NZMS's activities, of other members' interests, forthcoming NZMS annual conferences and conferences held in conjunction with the Australian Musicological Society. Contact us if you would like to join the Society or renew your membership.

Conference at Waikato University, November 2008

The annual conference of the New Zealand Musicological Society for 2008 was hosted by the Music Department of the University of Waikato, 15-17 November 2008 at the Academy of Performing Arts at the University of Waikato in Hamilton. Around 40 participants enjoyed a successful conference.

Papers in any musicological area were welcomed, and there was a special focus on composer Douglas Lilburn (1915-2001). The special sessions which dealt with aspects of Lilburn's life and work, were generously sponsored by the Lilburn Trust.

For further information please consult the Conference Programme.