Dr. Kent Brooks

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Kent R. Brooks is an Assistant Professor of Instruction at Northwestern University, specializing in the Department of Performance Studies. His academic work centers on Black Gospel Music, exploring its language and social/historical implications. Additionally, Brooks serves as the director of Religious Spiritual Life, where he focuses on creating inclusive programming to support healthy spiritual and secular expressions. A seasoned church music director and worship leader, he is recognized as a BMI-affiliated composer and has received the Waljo Gospel Music Award twice. He has been commissioned to compose for significant events, including a 200-voice choir performance for the Special Olympics World Games and has premiered compositions at prominent festivals. His contributions also include arrangements for the Springfield Symphony Chorale and original works featured at national music seminars. With a BA in Music Composition from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, he has studied under distinguished faculty in music composition, theory, and performance. Brooks has actively engaged in transcribing and arranging gospel music and has been involved with various organizations that promote the genre, including the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses. He has a rich history as both a performer and educator, contributing significantly to the landscape of gospel music in America.

Research Interests

Awards

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Karl Rosengren Faculty Award

Courses

Performance Culture Communication Voice Musical Theatre Black Gospel Music America Rebellious Women Gospel Music

Requirements for Northwestern University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
U.S. Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable)
Specialization Notes

Standard PhD requirements for TGS departments including Chemistry, Physics, and Sociology.