Dr James Félix
- PhD (Music), University of Leeds, UK
- Master of Music (Musicology), Birmingham Conservatoire, Birmingham City University, UK
- Postgraduate Diploma in Music, Birmingham Conservatoire, Birmingham City University, UK
- BA (Hons) Music, University of Nottingham, UK
Dr James Félix is an ethnomusicologist, educator, multi-instrumentalist, and conductor with a unique specialisation in the intricate relationship between music, food, and identity.
Originally from Coventry, UK, Dr Félix embarked on his musical journey as a classical guitarist, completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Nottingham. He furthered his academic pursuits at Birmingham Conservatoire, earning a Master of Music degree in Musicology. His master's research delved into the profound role of Hungarian folk music within the large-scale orchestral and choral works of Zoltán Kodály. He later obtained his PhD from the University of Leeds, where his doctoral research critically examined the notion of authenticity in Portuguese fado music.
Dr Félix's research portfolio is diverse and impactful. His previous work has investigated factors influencing the development of identity among undergraduate music students during the COVID-19 pandemic and explored the application of ethnomusicological techniques and concepts as a pedagogical framework for tertiary music education. His current research is centered on the emerging field of gastromusicology, where he investigates the dynamic interplay between food, music, and expressions of cultural identity, with a particular focus on the vibrant fado music scene in Lisbon, Portugal. He is broadly interested in the development and evolution of tradition and representations of cultural identity through music.
Since 2018, Dr Félix has been an integral part of LASALLE, initially serving as a part-time lecturer before receiving a full-time appointment in 2022. He is a dedicated educator, teaching critical thinking and contextual studies modules at both diploma and undergraduate levels, and oversees the Dissertation module in the School of Contemporary Music. He also supervises music-related master's theses on the MA Arts Pedagogy and Practice programme.
At the core of Dr Félix's teaching philosophy is a profound belief in the importance of individual meaning-making. He emphasises that while content mastery and technical proficiency are essential, their true value lies in their individual interpretation and application by each student. Dr Félix strongly encourages students to relate to concepts on a personal level, fostering the nurturing of their unique artistic identities and enabling them to carve out their distinct niches within their artistic practice and work. His ultimate aim is to equip students with the necessary skills, perspectives, and mindsets to foster continuous growth beyond their formal studies, empowering them to independently navigate their future in ways that reinforce and embrace their own identity.
Articles
Research papers and presentations (select) Conferences and symposia