Rhiannon Giddens Named Inaugural U-M Artist-in-Residence

The University of Michigan’s Arts Initiative has introduced Rhiannon Giddens as the inaugural U-M Artist-in-Residence. This groundbreaking Artist-in-Residence program is designed to bring innovative artists to campus, fostering creativity and global impact while engaging the university community with the transformative power of the arts.

Giddens, a North Carolina native, is recognized for her diverse folk music contributions as a founding member of the Carolina Chocolate Drops and co-composer of the Pulitzer Prize-winning opera “Omar.” Her artistry, particularly her focus on Black American contributions, is exemplified by her banjo work in Beyoncé’s 2024 hit “Texas Hold ‘Em.”

During her residency until October 2025, Giddens will collaborate with university librarians, faculty, and students on a research project examining the musical contributions of American underclasses. “I look forward to spending time at the University of Michigan next year, with their incredible archives and scholars, as I research and write my next book,” she expressed.

The U-M Artist-in-Residence program forms part of the broader Creators on Campus initiative, which enhances learning and arts research by inviting a variety of creatives to the university. This approach allows students, faculty, and staff to learn new creative models, fostering their application in research, work, and learning.

“Rhiannon Giddens is the perfect choice as the Arts Initiative’s inaugural U-M Artist-in-Residence,” stated Mark Clague, the initiative’s executive director. Her music showcases diverse cultural contributions, making a compelling case for the essential role of the arts in society.

Key elements of the residency include:

• Research and creation — Giddens will utilize U-M’s extensive library and archival resources to advance her research.
• Student engagement — Opportunities for learning from Giddens will occur through workshops, master classes, and projects.
• Public events — The residency kicks off on Nov. 8 with the Silkroad Ensemble with Rhiannon Giddens American Railroad, hosted by the University Musical Society.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration — Giddens will demonstrate the arts’ interconnectedness with other academic fields.

This residency reflects U-M’s dedication to supporting artists and emphasizes the arts’ critical role in education and society, aiming for a lasting impact on both the artist and the university’s arts education approach.