One of the most wonderful things about Pennsylvania German studies is the opportunity they open for interdisciplinary research. In fact, interdisciplinary perspectives that draw on multiple theories, methodological approaches, and research skill sets are required to develop a fulsome view of Pennsylvania German culture. In this episode of Cloister Talk, musicologist Dr. Christopher Dylan Herbert grants us special insights into his research focused on the music of the Ephrata community. We consider Dr. Herbert’s inspirations for exploring Ephrata’s rich and complex musical heritage, the findings of his research, and the value of interdisciplinary methods in a shifting scholarly landscape. Listen to Dr. Herbert’s new album of Ephrata music, Voices in the Wilderness, here: https://open.spotify.com/album/6iPkwxZsUaOEbY2zeB4gf0.

​Note: This interview was recorded live and in-person. Occasionally, the host’s questions and comments were not picked up by the mic, but the interview guest’s responses are all clear.