Joan Campbell Huguet

Campbell Huguet received her bachelor’s degree in music and French literature from Rhodes College in 2008, her master’s degree in music theatre from McGill University’s Schulich School of Music in 2010, and her PH.D. In music theory from the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music in 2015. Her research primarily focuses on form and harmony in nineteenth-century music.

How did you first get interested in your academic field?

I have always loved studying languages, both English and foreign. When I first took music theory, I realized that music was in many ways another language, with its own grammar, syntax, and idioms. Being able to understand musical styles in this way, after years of not really thinking about the music I performed at all, was so exciting for me.

Why did you choose to teach at a liberal arts college?

I have always wanted to teach at a liberal arts college because I went to a liberal arts school, Rhodes College in Memphis. As an undergraduate, I loved the small, supportive community. It was only in graduate school, however, that I realized just how different my education was from so many of my peers. I was comfortable talking to professors, I knew how to read an article critically, and perhaps most important, I was not scared of writing! These are skills that liberal arts colleges are wonderful at developing and that serve students no matter what their path after graduation.

Describe one of your favorite teaching moments.

Teaching music theory is wonderful because it is often the first time that my students have the opportunity to think about music in a structured, academic way. I love helping them to see that music is a dynamic, ever-evolving language. One of the most exciting ways that this happens is through model composition projects, when I ask them to create a piece of music in the style of a composer. They are often surprised to discover how challenging this can be!

Tell us one unexpected thing about yourself.

I primarily study German and Austrian music—but I’m in love with French language, food, and culture! I majored in French literature (along with music) in college, spent two years in Montréal while working on my master’s degree, and love visiting Paris whenever I can. Most weekends, you can find me in my kitchen baking French pastries.