Johnette M. Martin awarded Fulbright to study Indigenous musical sovereignty
The College of Music is pleased to share that our very own Johnette M. Martin is the recipient of the 2026-27 Fulbright U.S. Student Award to Aotearoa New Zealand!
鈥淚鈥檓 honored,鈥 says Martin, who plans to graduate in 2028 with a PhD in indigenous ethnomusicology with a geographic focus on Oceania. 鈥淭his opportunity feels both humbling and affirming鈥攁 recognition not only of my work but also of the communities, mentors and collaborators who have shaped how I listen, think and create.听
鈥淭o me, the Fulbright represents a commitment to dialogue across difference鈥攁n invitation to engage music and sound as ways of building relationships, asking better questions and learning with and from others.鈥
The Fulbright is one of the most prestigious and competitive international exchange programs in the world, supporting exceptional scholars whose work demonstrates significant academic merit, cultural engagement and global impact. Among Fulbright applicants, New Zealand is widely regarded as one of the most sought-after and highly competitive placements, making this achievement especially distinguished.
Martin will conduct advanced research in Aotearoa, continuing her work on indigenous musical sovereignty and community-centered scholarship. 鈥淲hat excites me most is the chance to immerse myself in new sonic worlds while contributing meaningfully through research, collaboration and teaching,鈥 Martin shares. 鈥淚鈥檓 especially looking forward to the unexpected moments鈥攖he conversations, rehearsals and everyday exchanges that challenge assumptions and open new directions for my work as a Kanaka Maoli Indigenous woman and scholar.鈥
She adds, 鈥淢y time at 麻豆免费版下载Boulder鈥檚 College of Music has been central to this journey. The college鈥檚 universal musician approach鈥攇rounded in curiosity, versatility and a willingness to move across disciplines鈥攈as shaped how I approach music not just as an object of study but as a living, relational practice. That broadly-based training has prepared me to engage this next chapter with openness, rigor and care.
鈥淚鈥檓 grateful for the guidance, support and aloha that made this possible and excited for what lies ahead.鈥
Congratulations, Johnette, on this extraordinary honor and on representing your communities and your university with such purpose!