The academic community is mourning the loss of Charles Hiroshi Garrett, a distinguished Professor of Musicology at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance. He passed away on Thursday, July 18, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of profound contributions to the study of American music. Garrett’s passing was announced through a heartfelt Facebook post: “We are shocked and saddened to share that Professor of Musicology Charles Hiroshi Garrett passed away on July 18th.” The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
Charles Hiroshi Garrett’s Career
Charles Hiroshi Garrett was a towering figure in the realm of American music studies. His academic journey at the University of Michigan began in 2004, and over the years, he became a pivotal figure in unraveling the intricate tapestry of American musical traditions, particularly those of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.
Garrett’s scholarly interests spanned a wide array of subjects, including popular music, jazz, technology, sound studies, digital culture, nationalism, and race and ethnicity. These diverse areas of focus reflected his deep commitment to understanding how music intersects with broader social, cultural, and technological dynamics in American society.
Academic Achievements
Garrett’s academic excellence was recognized through various accolades. In 2014, he received the Faculty Recognition Award from the University of Michigan, a testament to his dedication and impact as an educator and scholar. In 2023, he was honored with the John H. D’Arms Faculty Award for Distinguished Graduate Mentoring in the Humanities, underscoring his influential role as a mentor to future scholars.
One of Garrett’s most significant works, “Struggling to Define a Nation: American Music and the Twentieth Century” (2008), stands as a cornerstone in American music scholarship. The book received the Irving Lowens Memorial Book Award from the Society for American Music and an honorable mention for the Woody Guthrie Award from IASPM-US, highlighting its critical contribution to the field.
Contributions to Jazz Studies
Garrett made substantial contributions to jazz studies through his co-editorship of “Jazz/Not Jazz: The Music and Its Boundaries” (2012), a collection that critically examines the evolving boundaries of jazz music in contemporary culture. This work has been instrumental in shaping the discourse on jazz and its place within the broader context of American music.
Expanding Scholarly Horizons
In 2021, Garrett co-edited “Sounding Together: Collaborative Perspectives on U.S. Music in the 21st Century” with Carol J. Oja. This book explores collaborative approaches to understanding American music in the modern era, further showcasing Garrett’s commitment to expanding the horizons of musicology.
One of Garrett’s most notable editorial achievements was his role as editor-in-chief for “The Grove Dictionary of American Music, second edition” (2013). Published as part of Oxford/Grove Music Online, this monumental reference work is considered the definitive resource for scholars and enthusiasts of American music, encapsulating the breadth and depth of American musical traditions.
Impact on Students and Colleagues
Garrett’s influence extended beyond his published works and editorial endeavors. As a professor, he inspired countless students, fostering a new generation of scholars who are now equipped to critically engage with the multifaceted aspects of American music and culture. His commitment to mentoring emerging scholars highlighted his dedication to academic excellence and intellectual rigor.
Community and Collegial Reflections
Garrett’s colleagues and students remember him not only for his scholarly contributions but also for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering support. “Charles was more than a professor; he was a mentor and a friend,” said one of his former students. “His passion for musicology was contagious, and his guidance has shaped my academic career in profound ways.”
Legacy and Commemoration
As the academic community comes to terms with this loss, plans are being made to honor Garrett’s legacy. Memorial services and tributes will be organized to celebrate his life and contributions. His family has announced that an obituary will be released, providing further details on his life and accomplishments.
Charles Hiroshi Garrett’s passing marks a significant loss for the field of musicology and the University of Michigan community. His contributions to the study of American music will continue to resonate, inspiring future generations of scholars and students. The void left by his absence is profound, but his legacy of scholarship, mentorship, and intellectual curiosity endures.
