Discussion with Julian Johnson and Iris Dankemeyer

On 19 March 2026, a discussion moderated by Prof. Susanne Kogler took place in lecture theatre 23.02 with the current fellows of the priority area, Iris Dankemeyer and Julian Johnson. Current topics in music research provided the impetus and formed the main focus of the relaxed atmosphere at the meeting between the experts and the participants. The two Fellows were first introduced, and this quickly led the discussion to their common ground: the engagement with Critical Theory in their research, particularly the works of Theodor W. Adorno. Julian Johnson spoke of how the philosopher and music aesthetician had inspired his research from an early age, whilst Iris Dankemeyer read from her book *Die Erotik des Ohrs. Musical Experience and Emancipation According to Adorno”. Naturally, everyone taking part in the discussion had the opportunity to ask the two fellows questions. The discussion covered various parts of the musical spectrum, from Debussy to techno music. The common thread or key message from the experts was the idea that aspects of research in music, aesthetics, and indeed in a broader sense, are not static; rather, researchers act dynamically throughout their careers and are continually motivated to explore and embrace new thematic avenues.