León was an assistant professor of folklore and ethnomusicology and taught courses such as South American Performance and Culture, Music and Black Identity in Latin America, and Music and Nationalism in Latin ?America.
In January, León was a part of the “Surviving and Thriving: Minority Graduate Student Professionalization Series” workshops. These events aimed to help minority graduate students with interviewing, networking and professionalism.
Outside of the classroom, León’s research focuses on music and nationalism, the intersection of popular and art music traditions and the history of cultural policy and music research, according to an IU press release.
His research has been published in several research journals, edited volumes and reference works. Recently, León co-edited the volume “A Latin American Musical Reader: Views from the South,” according to the press release.
“Javier’s combination of performance, research and IU experience makes him the ideal candidate for our new director,” Jacobs School of Music Dean Gwyn Richards said. “We are excited by his appointment and look forward to supporting his leadership in the years ahead.”
In addition to his research, León has worked as a consultant for music art institutions such as the Music Instrument Museum, National Endowment for the Arts and Smithsonian ?Institution.
“Since 1961, the Latin American Music Center has occupied an important place within the development of the study and performance of Latin American music, both within Latin America and the United States,” León said. “I am thrilled for the opportunity to lead this important center, and I look forward to working with the vibrant community of students, faculty and staff at the Jacobs School of Music.”
Lindsay Moore
