Newcastle University has honoured a distinguished career in folk music and teaching by naming a new lecture theatre after one of its most influential academics, Sandra Kerr. The announcement was a moment that blended the university’s rich musical heritage with its forward‑looking academic vision.
Recognising a Legacy of Inspiration
Sandra Kerr arrived at Newcastle in 2001 as a lecturer in folk music. Over the past 25 years she has trained generations of musicians, expanded the curriculum, and maintained strong links between the university and the folk community. Her work with Ewan MacColl’s Critics Group, performances across continents, and songwriting collaborations—most notably on the beloved children’s series Bagpuss—illustrate her breadth of experience.
From the Stage to the Classroom
In addition to her public performances, Kerr has been a dedicated tutor of the English concertina, a much‑loved instrument in Northumbria. She has conducted folk choirs such as the award‑winning Werca’s Folk and has contributed to national festivals, including the National Folk Festival Easter School in Canberra. Her dual focus on performance and pedagogy has imbued Newcastle’s music program with a practical, community‑centered ethos.
The Renaming Ceremony: A Celebration of Musical Diversity
The opening of the Sandra Kerr Lecture Theatre took place in King’s Hall, where faculty, students, and alumni gathered for a showcase that displayed the department’s musical range. From contemporary vocal ensembles to traditional folk trios, the performances illustrated the department’s commitment to a wide spectrum of styles. Kerr herself spoke about the significance of the honour, dedicating the theatre to female colleagues and acknowledging the collaborative spirit of the department.
Commemorating Diversity through the Inspiring People Initiative
The theatre’s naming aligns with the university’s Inspiring People project, which recognises individuals who have left a lasting imprint on staff and students. By highlighting contributors from varied backgrounds—including folk music, choral direction, and contemporary composition—Newcastle highlights the Desideratum that education thrives on varied perspectives.
Newcastle’s Musical Heritage and Academic Strengths
Music at Newcastle has a long lineage, dating back to the late 19th century when Charles Sanford Terry first taught history and music in Durham College. Subsequent scholars such as William Gillies Whittaker and Sidney Newman helped shape the department’s early breadth, while the 1948 introduction of the BA Hons in Music cemented its academic status.
Current Academic Pursuits
- The first Russell Group university to offer a degree in Popular and Contemporary Music, a program that bridges theory and practice.
- Leadership in the North East’s Centre of Excellence in Teaching and Learning (CETL) for music.
- Internationally recognised research in ethnomusicology, early music, and critical musicology, driving both scholarship and on‑the‑ground application.
Opportunities for Students and Alumni
Students at Newcastle can engage with the newly named space in multiple ways: from instrumental workshops aligned with Kerr’s expertise to performance slots within the theatre’s flexible acoustics. Alumni who continue to cultivate their musical careers can return for guest lectures, rehearsals, or collaborative projects—further extending the alumni network.
Getting Involved
- Attend the Annual Folk Music Symposium to network with fellow practitioners and scholars.
- Apply for the Newcastle Music Fellowship that offers teaching and research placements.
- Connect with the department’s Alumni Choir for periodic performances and recordings.
How the Community Can Support Music at Newcastle
Beyond academic participation, the broader community has several ways to contribute. The university’s donation schemes—available via the Support page—allow individuals and organisations to fund scholarships, equipment, or event sponsorships that keep the music program vibrant.
Volunteer and Donate
- Volunteer your time for event coordination or instrument maintenance.
- Donate musical instruments or recording equipment through the University’s Donation portal.
- Partner with the university on community outreach projects that foster music education in local schools.
Connecting the Past, Present, and Future
The Sandra Kerr Lecture Theatre stands as more than a physical space; it symbolizes the synthesis of Newcastle’s storied musical past with its dynamic future. As students, alumni, and supporters chart new paths in performance and research, the legacy of educators like Kerr continues to inspire bold, innovative work.
Ready to make a lasting impact on music education? Write to us today to learn how you can support the department.
Explore further opportunities for collaboration and learning by visiting the Alumni Discounts section.
Have questions about the new lecture theatre or upcoming events? Feel free to contact the alumni office for detailed information.
Share your own memories or experiences at Newcastle’s music events in the comments below—we value every story.
For more insights into the university’s music programmes, read the Popular and Contemporary Music degree overview.
