Dr. Carlos Chirinos Espin

Biography

Carlos Chirinos-Espin is an Assistant Professor and Director of the NYU Music Social Change Lab at New York University. His research connects music to social impact and global development, exploring how music can create social value, build community, and shape public health communication while expressing cultural identity. He leads studies on how songs by artists inspire social awareness and behavior change. The BEAT SCD initiative, developed in collaboration with NYU's School of Global Public Health and the Adekunle Gold Foundation, utilizes music to reduce stigma and support the mental health of individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease. Chirinos has worked on prosocial messages in popular music that aided in the creation of the Recording Academy's Harry Belafonte "Best Song Social Change" award. He teaches courses such as Health Communications, and develops curricula on the global music industry, connecting creative practice with commerce and addressing social responsibility. His projects have received support from organizations like the World Bank and DFID, with notable accomplishments including the award-winning Africa Stop Ebola initiative. A seasoned composer and curator, he has also co-created a concert series at Lincoln Center featuring prominent Latin musicians which aims to link music with communities and social messages.

Research Interests

Experience

Awards