German Studies Association – 47th Annual Conference, October 5–8, 2023, Montréal, Canada

We invite proposals for an interdisciplinary seminar on the Sounds of War at the 2023 German Studies Association. War is probably the loudest human activity, especially since the advent of gunpowder and other modern weapons. From the whistling of bullets, the kabooms of shells and the screams and shouts of battle to the cadences of patriotic songs and other music, war exists as an immersive sonic experience. Sponsored by the German Studies Association's Sound Studies and the War and Violence Networks, this seminar will explore the relationships between sound and war as a way to understand violence better and to expand our concept of sound. The seminar will consider the multitude of sounds and music that has promoted, opposed, waged, and commemorated war since the Middle Ages. How can various disciplines work together to develop a shared framework for analyzing music, sound, and conflict? Combining our networks’ diverse approaches to sources, methods, theory, and subject matter, this seminar has the potential to illuminate shared questions in exciting new ways.

Divided over the three days of conference meetings, the seminar will include:

(1) four to five articles/chapters on sound and war to establish a common theoretical language, no more than a total of 120 pages
(2) Discussion of pre-circulated papers (ten pages) by participants
(3) Planning and discussion for how these ideas/papers will develop into a publishable collection of essays

The conveners seek participants from all disciplines who are working on or interested in the sounds of war. Graduate students, contingent and junior faculty members are encouraged to apply. The seminar is intended to encourage mentorship and bring underrepresented voices and scholars to the complex question of sound and war.

To apply, please submit an abstract describing the nature of your contribution (up to 500 words) and a short biography (up to 300 words) directly through the GSA website: https://thegsa.secure-platform.com/47/.

The deadline is Friday, March 3rd at 11:59 p.m. PST. Please note that participants must be members of the GSA for 2023; you can join or renew your membership here: https://thegsa.org/member-services.

Questions, please contact the Conveners:

- Abby Anderton (abby.anderton@baruch.cuny.edu)
- David Imhoof (imhoof@susqu.edu)
- Rita Krueger (rita.krueger@temple.edu)
- Adam Seipp (aseipp@tamu.edu)