You are warmly invited to the launch of Craig Hammond's new book, Music, Hope and Transformation through Higher Education (Bloomsbury, 2026)

Hosted by LJMU's 'Ethnography Club (https://openjournals.ljmu.ac.uk/EiD)', and in conjunction with the Liverpool Institute for Research in Education (https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/research/centres-and-institutes/the-liverpool-institute-for-research-in-education), you are warmly invited to the launch of Craig Hammond's new book, Music, Hope and Transformation through Higher Education: A Psychogeographic Personal Narrative (https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/music-hope-and-transformation-through-higher-education-9781350514287/) (Bloomsbury Academic, 2026).

Part autoethnographic memoir, part philosophical inquiry, part education manifesto, the book traces how music, place, and learning opens up unexpected and transformative possibilities in people's lives. It explores possibilities for alternative types of higher education learning and assessment, and what this means for educators and practitioners. The book posits that the university can become a space where hope is lived rather than only discussed. It imagines higher education as a place where the "not-yet" of a better future can be glimpsed, felt and worked towards.

Join us for a relaxed event consisting of food, drink, presentations and conversation; along with readings; and, of course, music. There will be oportunity for attendees to discuss the book, ask questions, and (for anyone that has read it) share reflections. Whether you teach, study, make music, or simply believe that education can change lives, you'll be very welcome.

Click here for more details about the book (https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/music-hope-and-transformation-through-higher-education-9781350514287/):

Timings for the event:

12.00-13.00: Arrival, nibbles, tea, coffee, juice

13.00-14.00: Presentations/recital delivered by Craig, Emma, and Jonathan

14.00-14.30: Q&A with presenters and attendees (hosted by Irina)

14.30-15.00: Informal opportunity to speak with presenters / network

Description supplied by the event organiser.