Archivist Meets Ethnomusicologist: Reconstructing the John Blacking Papers

Abstract

This paper explores how the work of the archivist can enrich that of the ethnomusicologist. It documents the acquisition of John Blacking's papers by The University of Western Australia from his home office in Belfast after his death. John Blacking (1928–1990) was one of the foremost ethnomusicologists of his time. His papers are significant for several reasons, not least of which is their illustration of exemplary personal record-keeping. In addition, the manner in which the collection was drawn together, transported, stored and subsequently catalogued reveals a case rich in archival detective work and reconstruction. The paper shows the range of topics Blacking explored during his career, and considers how his interests, work and family matters intersect in his research practices. Through the application of archival theory to the management of this collection, the paper examines the role of the archivist as an active creator of knowledge. There is much to learn from this exercise: how the application of archival theory can generate greater knowledge about Blacking's research methods; and how important it is for researchers to consider the management of their own research output.

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