Faculty

Our Esteemed Faculty

At Parvis School of Economics and Music, York, our faculty are the cornerstone of our academic distinction. They are a diverse group of internationally recognised scholars, celebrated artists, and experienced industry professionals, drawn from across the European Union and beyond. Each member brings a wealth of knowledge, a passion for teaching, and a commitment to pioneering research that enriches our unique interdisciplinary environment. Below, we proudly present a selection of our esteemed academic staff who embody the spirit of inquiry and innovation that defines Parvis.

Professor Dr. Alarik Kovač Head of Applied Economic Modelling & Forecasting Department: Business Administration & Applied Economics

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Econometrics, Corvinus University of Budapest, Hungary
  • MSc in Economics, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
  • BSc in Mathematics and Economics, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic

Biography & Research Focus: Professor Kovač is a leading figure in a Mpplied econometrics with a distinguished career spanning academia and consultancy for several European central banks. His research focuses on developing sophisticated models for macroeconomic forecasting, particularly in relation to fiscal policy impacts and financial market stability within the EU. He champions the integration of behavioural economic principles into traditional modelling to enhance predictive accuracy. At Parvis, he leads initiatives in quantitative research methods and supervises doctoral candidates exploring the frontiers of economic forecasting.

Key Research Interests:

  • Time Series Econometrics and Forecasting
  • Behavioural Macroeconomics
  • Fiscal Policy Analysis in Monetary Unions
  • Financial Market Volatility Modelling

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Kovač, A. (2023). “The Efficacy of Non-Linear Models in Post-Pandemic Inflation Forecasting.” Journal of Applied Econometrics, 38(4), pp. 512-535. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2023-001)
  • Kovač, A. (2021). Advanced Econometric Techniques for Policy Analysis. York: Parvis University Press. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2021-001)
  • Kovač, A., & Dupont, L. (2019). “Integrating Sentiment Data in Sovereign Risk Models.” Proceedings of the European Economic Association Annual Congress. (Publication No: PSEM-C-2019-001)

Dr. Silvija Perko Senior Lecturer in Arts & Cultural Policy Department: Arts & Cultural Enterprise

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Cultural Policy Studies, University of Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • MA in Arts Management, Goldsmiths, University of London, UK
  • BA in History of Art, University of Zagreb, Croatia

Biography & Research Focus: Dr. Perko is a respected scholar in cultural policy, with a particular interest in the sustainability of cultural institutions and the role of arts in urban regeneration. Her doctoral research explored comparative cultural funding models across Northern Europe. Before joining Parvis, she worked as a policy advisor for a prominent arts council. Her current work examines the impact of digital transformation on cultural consumption and policy frameworks for creative labour markets.

Key Research Interests:

  • Comparative Cultural Policy
  • Sustainable Arts Funding Models
  • Digitalisation in the Creative Sector
  • Urban Regeneration through Arts and Culture
  • Labour Market Dynamics for Creative Professionals

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Perko, S. (2024). “Navigating the Algorithm: Cultural Policy for AI-Driven Content Creation.” International Journal of Cultural Policy, 30(1), pp. 88-105. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2024-001)
  • Perko, S. (2022). The Resilient Institution: New Frameworks for Arts Funding in the 21st Century. Rotterdam: V2_Publishing. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2022-001)
  • Perko, S. (2020). “Creative Ecosystems or Precarious Playgrounds? Policy Challenges for Freelancers in the Arts.” Conference Paper: Social Theory, Politics and the Arts (STP&A). (Publication No: PSEM-C-2020-001)

Maestro Valeriu Stan Professor of Conducting & Ensemble Performance Department: Performance & Sonic Arts

Qualifications:

  • Doctor of Music (DMus) in Conducting, National University of Music Bucharest, Romania
  • MA in Orchestral Conducting, Sibelius Academy, Helsinki, Finland
  • Diploma in Piano Performance, Gheorghe Dima Music Academy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Biography & Research Focus: Maestro Stan is an internationally acclaimed conductor and a passionate advocate for contemporary orchestral music. He has guest conducted numerous renowned orchestras across Europe and has a particular interest in Romanian and Eastern European composers. His research delves into historical conducting practices and their relevance to modern interpretation, alongside championing new works through commissions and premieres. At Parvis, he directs the Parvis Symphony Orchestra and mentors aspiring conductors.

Key Research Interests:

  • Historical and Contemporary Conducting Practices
  • Interpretation of 20th and 21st Century Orchestral Repertoire
  • Romanian Classical Music and its Diaspora
  • Pedagogy of Orchestral Leadership

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Stan, V. (2023). “The Enescu Enigma: Reinterpreting the Orchestral Suites for Modern Audiences.” Journal of Musicological Research, 42(2), pp. 115-134. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2023-002)
  • Stan, V. (2020). The Conductor’s Baton: A Journey Through Score and Sound. London: Rhinegold Publishing. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2020-001)
  • Stan, V. (Ed.). (2018). New Voices from the Danube: A Collection of Contemporary Orchestral Miniatures. (Score Anthology with Critical Notes). Budapest: Editio Musica Budapest. (Publication No: PSEM-S-2018-001)

Dr. Ioanna Zaharopoulos Lecturer in Behavioural Economics & Consumer Psychology Department: Business Administration & Applied Economics

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Behavioural Economics, Athens University of Economics and Business, Greece
  • MSc in Cognitive Psychology, Leiden University, Netherlands
  • BSc in Economics, University of Cyprus, Cyprus

Biography & Research Focus: Dr. Zaharopoulos explores the fascinating intersection of psychology and economic decision-making. Her research investigates cognitive biases in financial choices, the impact of emotional states on consumer behaviour, particularly in relation to arts consumption and luxury goods, and the design of ‘nudge’ interventions to promote pro-social behaviours. She is passionate about applying behavioural insights to enhance marketing strategies and public policy effectiveness.

Key Research Interests:

  • Cognitive Biases in Economic Decision-Making
  • Neuroeconomics and Consumer Choice
  • The Psychology of Arts Consumption
  • Nudge Theory and Public Policy Application

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Zaharopoulos, I. (2024). “The Price of Emotion: How Affect Influences Willingness-to-Pay for Live Music Experiences.” Journal of Consumer Psychology, 34(3), pp. 245-263. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2024-002)
  • Zaharopoulos, I., & Müller, K. (2022). “Heuristics and Biases in SME Investment Decisions: A Cross-Cultural Study.” Small Business Economics, 59(1), pp. 101-120. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2022-001)
  • Zaharopoulos, I. (2020). Mind Over Money: Understanding the Psychology of Financial Well-being. Nicosia: University of Nicosia Press. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2020-002)

Dr. Radek Nowakowski Senior Lecturer in Sonic Arts & Music Technology Department: Performance & Sonic Arts

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Music Technology, AGH University of Science and Technology, Krakow, Poland
  • MA in Sound Studies, Berlin University of the Arts (UdK), Germany
  • BEng in Sound Engineering, Technical University of Gdańsk, Poland

Biography & Research Focus: Dr. Nowakowski is an innovator in the field of sonic arts, focusing on interactive installations, generative music systems, and spatial audio. His work often explores the relationship between sound, technology, and the human experience in urban environments. He has exhibited his sound art internationally and collaborates frequently with architects and visual artists. At Parvis, he spearheads courses in music programming, interactive sound design, and immersive audio experiences.

Key Research Interests:

  • Interactive Sound Art and Installation
  • Generative Music Algorithms
  • Spatial Audio and Immersive Sound Environments
  • The Aesthetics of Digital Sound
  • Soundscape Composition

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Nowakowski, R. (2023). “Algorithmic Authenticity: Perceptions of Human versus AI-Generated Music.” Organised Sound, 28(2), pp. 201-215. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2023-003)
  • Nowakowski, R. (2021). The Responsive City: Sonic Art in Urban Public Spaces. Warsaw: Polish Music Information Centre. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2021-002)
  • Nowakowski, R. (2019). “Sounding the Smart City: Challenges and Opportunities for Interactive Sonic Art.” Proceedings of the International Conference on New Interfaces for Musical Expression (NIME). (Publication No: PSEM-C-2019-002)

Professor Dr. Līga Ozoliņa Chair in International Business & Creative Entrepreneurship Department: Business Administration & Applied Economics; Arts & Cultural Enterprise (Cross-Appointed)

Qualifications:

  • PhD in International Business, Stockholm School of Economics in Riga, Latvia
  • MBA with Distinction, INSEAD, France/Singapore
  • BA (Hons) in Modern Languages and European Studies, University of Bath, UK

Biography & Research Focus: Professor Ozoliņa is a distinguished scholar in international business strategy with a specific research focus on entrepreneurship within the creative industries. Her work examines how cultural enterprises scale internationally, the role of networks in creative clusters, and innovative business models for digital arts platforms. She brings extensive industry experience, having consulted for numerous creative start-ups and cultural SMEs across the Baltic and Nordic regions.

Key Research Interests:

  • Internationalisation of Creative Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)
  • Business Model Innovation in Digital Arts
  • Creative Clusters and Regional Development
  • Cross-Cultural Management in Creative Teams
  • Social Entrepreneurship in the Arts

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Ozoliņa, L. (2024). “Born Global or Grown Local? International Scaling Strategies for Digital Music Start-ups.” Journal of International Business Studies, 55(1), pp. 130-155. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2024-003)
  • Ozoliņa, L. (2022). The Creative Leap: Managing Growth in Arts and Cultural Organisations. Riga: SSE Riga Publications. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2022-002)
  • Ozoliņa, L., & Virtanen, M. (2020). “The Role of Soft Power in the Internationalisation of Nordic Design Firms.” Academy of Management Proceedings. (Publication No: PSEM-C-2020-002)

Dr. Duarte Santos Lecturer in Musicology & Cultural History Department: Performance & Sonic Arts

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Musicology, NOVA University Lisbon, Portugal
  • MA in Cultural History, University of Coimbra, Portugal
  • Licenciatura in Musical Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal

Biography & Research Focus: Dr. Santos specialises in the music and cultural history of the Iberian Peninsula, with a particular emphasis on the early modern period and the interplay between folk traditions and art music. His research also explores music’s role in constructing national and regional identities. He is known for his engaging teaching style, bringing historical contexts alive for students of performance and composition.

Key Research Interests:

  • Music of the Iberian Renaissance and Baroque
  • Folk Music Traditions and their Art Music Adaptations
  • Music, Nationalism, and Identity Politics
  • Colonial and Postcolonial Musical Encounters
  • Oral Traditions and Music Archiving

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Santos, D. (2023). “Echoes of the Reconquista: Musical Hybridity in 16th-Century Portuguese Villancicos.” Early Music History, 42, pp. 201-230. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2023-004)
  • Santos, D. (2021). Fado and the Fabric of Lisbon: Music, Memory, and the City. Lisbon: Imprensa Nacional Casa da Moeda. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2021-003)
  • Santos, D. (2019). “Singing the Nation: The Role of Choral Societies in 19th-Century Portuguese Identity Formation.” Proceedings of the International Musicological Society Congress. (Publication No: PSEM-C-2019-003)

Dr. Esmée Dubois Senior Lecturer in Arts Marketing & Audience Development Department: Arts & Cultural Enterprise

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Marketing (Arts Focus), HEC Paris, France
  • MSc in Management, ESSEC Business School, France
  • BA in Communication Studies, Université libre de Bruxelles, Belgium

Biography & Research Focus: Dr. Dubois is an expert in arts marketing, with a strong focus on digital strategies for audience engagement and development. Her research investigates how cultural organisations can leverage data analytics to understand audience behaviour, personalise marketing communications, and build sustainable relationships. She has worked with theatres, museums, and festivals across Europe on developing innovative marketing campaigns.

Key Research Interests:

  • Digital Marketing Strategies for Cultural Organisations
  • Audience Analytics and Segmentation
  • Branding and Identity in the Arts Sector
  • The Impact of Social Media on Arts Participation
  • Pricing Strategies for Cultural Goods and Events

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Dubois, E. (2024). “Beyond the Click: Measuring True Engagement in Digital Arts Marketing.” Journal of Arts Marketing, 14(1), pp. 33-51. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2024-004)
  • Dubois, E., & Smith, J. (2022). The Algorithmic Audience: Data-Driven Marketing for the Arts. London: Routledge. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2022-003)
  • Dubois, E. (2020). “From Passive Spectator to Active Co-Creator: Gamification in Museum Audience Engagement.” International Conference on Arts and Cultural Management (AIMAC) Proceedings. (Publication No: PSEM-C-2020-003)

Professor Dr. Borislav Ivanov Professor of Economic History & Development Studies Department: Business Administration & Applied Economics

Qualifications:

  • Dr.Sci. (Economics), Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
  • PhD in Economic History, London School of Economics, UK
  • MA in History, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, Bulgaria

Biography & Research Focus: Professor Ivanov is a renowned economic historian whose research focuses on the long-term economic development trajectories of Eastern European nations, particularly institutional change and its impact on growth. He also investigates the economic history of creative guilds and their transition into modern enterprise structures. His work is characterised by meticulous archival research and a comparative approach.

Key Research Interests:

  • Economic Transformation in Post-Socialist Economies
  • Institutional Economics and Long-Run Growth
  • The Economic History of Craftsmanship and Creative Guilds
  • Comparative Development Studies: Europe and Asia
  • Globalisation and its Historical Antecedents

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Ivanov, B. (2023). “Pathways from Plan to Market: Institutional Resilience and Divergence in Eastern Europe.” Explorations in Economic History, 88, 101495. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2023-005)
  • Ivanov, B. (2020). Guilds, Innovation, and the Rise of the Market Economy: A European Perspective. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2020-003)
  • Ivanov, B. (2018). “The Shadow of the Past: How Historical State Capacity Affects Modern Entrepreneurship in the Balkans.” World Economic History Congress Proceedings. (Publication No: PSEM-C-2018-002)

Dr. Anja Virtanen Lecturer in Composition & Electroacoustic Music Department: Performance & Sonic Arts

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Composition, University of Music and Performing Arts Graz, Austria
  • MA in Electroacoustic Composition, Royal College of Music, Stockholm, Sweden
  • BMus (Hons) in Music, University of Helsinki, Finland

Biography & Research Focus: Dr. Virtanen is a contemporary composer whose work frequently blends acoustic instruments with live electronics and interactive media. Her compositions often explore themes of nature, technology, and human perception. She has received commissions from leading new music ensembles and festivals. Her research interests include extended instrumental techniques and the integration of algorithmic processes in composition.

Key Research Interests:

  • Acoustic and Electroacoustic Composition
  • Live Electronics and Interactive Performance Systems
  • Algorithmic Composition and Generative Art
  • Timbre and Orchestration in Contemporary Music
  • Feminist Perspectives in New Music

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Virtanen, A. (2024). “The Cyborg Instrumentalist: Exploring Embodiment in Live Electronic Performance.” Contemporary Music Review, 43(1), pp. 55-73. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2024-005)
  • Virtanen, A. (2022). Sonic Landscapes: Composing with Environmental Sound and Live Electronics (Compositional Portfolio with Critical Commentary). York: Parvis University Press. (Publication No: PSEM-CP-2022-001)
  • Virtanen, A. (2020). “Deconstructing the Algorithm: Creative Agency in Generative Music.” International Computer Music Conference (ICMC) Proceedings. (Publication No: PSEM-C-2020-004)

Dr. Miklós Fehér Senior Lecturer in Strategic Management & Innovation Department: Business Administration & Applied Economics

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Management, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Netherlands
  • MSc in Economics and Business Administration, Copenhagen Business School, Denmark
  • BSc in Business Informatics, Budapest University of Technology and Economics, Hungary

Biography & Research Focus: Dr. Fehér’s research centres on strategic innovation, particularly how established organisations can foster entrepreneurial mindsets and adapt to disruptive technologies. He studies organisational ambidexterity – the ability to manage both existing operations and explore new opportunities – with a keen interest in how this applies to firms in the creative and cultural sectors seeking to innovate their business models.

Key Research Interests:

  • Corporate Entrepreneurship and Intrapreneurship
  • Managing Disruptive Innovation
  • Organisational Ambidexterity
  • Strategic Alliances and Open Innovation
  • Business Model Innovation in Creative Industries

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Fehér, M. (2023). “Orchestrating Ambidexterity: Leadership Practices for Balancing Exploration and Exploitation in Arts Organisations.” Strategic Management Journal, 44(7), pp. 1234-1258. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2023-006)
  • Fehér, M. (2021). The Innovator’s Compass: Navigating Disruption in Established Firms. Amsterdam: Amsterdam University Press. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2021-004)
  • Fehér, M., & Christensen, L. (2019). “When David Meets Goliath: Strategic Responses of Incumbents to Creative Industry Disruptors.” European Academy of Management (EURAM) Conference Proceedings. (Publication No: PSEM-C-2019-004)

Ms. Chiara Rossi Head of Dance Studies & Choreographic Practice Department: Arts & Cultural Enterprise; Performance & Sonic Arts (Associate)

Qualifications:

  • MFA in Choreography, Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, London, UK
  • BA in Dance Performance, Accademia Nazionale di Danza, Rome, Italy
  • Certified Laban/Bartenieff Movement Analyst (CLMA)

Biography & Research Focus: Ms. Rossi is a choreographer, performer, and dance educator with extensive international experience. Her choreographic work often explores themes of identity, social justice, and the body as an archive of experience, frequently integrating digital media and site-specific elements. Her research focuses on somatic practices in dance training, collaborative choreographic processes, and the intersection of dance with cultural policy and community arts.

Key Research Interests:

  • Contemporary Choreographic Practices
  • Somatic Education in Dance Training
  • Dance and Digital Technologies
  • Community Dance and Social Engagement
  • Improvisation and Collaborative Creation

Selected Fictional Publications/Creations:

  • Rossi, C. (Choreographer). (2023). Urban Echoes [Dance Performance]. Premiered at The Place, London. (Performance No: PSEM-P-2023-001)
  • Rossi, C. (2021). “The Embodied Archive: Somatic Approaches to Preserving Intangible Dance Heritage.” Dance Research Journal, 53(2), pp. 45-62. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2021-001)
  • Rossi, C. (2019). Movement Dialogues: A Practical Guide to Collaborative Choreography. London: Oberon Books. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2019-001)

Dr. Tomas Petraitis Lecturer in Financial Economics & Investment Management Department: Business Administration & Applied Economics

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Finance, Vilnius University, Lithuania
  • MSc in Financial Mathematics, University of Warwick, UK
  • BSc in Economics, Kaunas University of Technology, Lithuania

Biography & Research Focus: Dr. Petraitis specialises in financial market dynamics, asset pricing, and investment strategy. His research explores the efficiency of emerging European financial markets, the impact of fintech on investment services, and sustainable investment (ESG) criteria. He combines rigorous quantitative analysis with an understanding of market microstructures.

Key Research Interests:

  • Asset Pricing Models in Emerging Markets
  • Fintech and Digital Disruption in Finance
  • Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Investing
  • Market Microstructure and Liquidity
  • Portfolio Management and Risk Analysis

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Petraitis, T. (2024). “Liquidity Dynamics in Baltic Equity Markets: A High-Frequency Analysis.” Journal of Banking & Finance, 158, 107005. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2024-006)
  • Petraitis, T., & Kallas, M. (2022). “The Impact of Robo-Advisors on Traditional Wealth Management: Evidence from the EU.” European Financial Management, 28(3), pp. 601-625. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2022-002)
  • Petraitis, T. (2020). Navigating New Frontiers: Investment Strategies for the Digital Age. Vilnius: Technologija Press. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2020-004)

Ms. Zofia Wójcik Programme Director, High School Pathways & Academic Skills Development Department: Academic Development Unit (School-wide)

Qualifications:

  • MEd in Educational Leadership, University College London (UCL), UK
  • PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education), University of Oxford, UK
  • MA (Hons) in English Literature & Economics, University of St Andrews, UK

Biography & Research Focus: Ms. Wójcik is an experienced educator with a strong background in curriculum development and academic support for pre-university students. Her focus is on fostering critical thinking, research skills, and interdisciplinary learning within Parvis’s High School programmes. She leads on initiatives to ensure a smooth transition for students into undergraduate study and researches effective pedagogies for diverse learners, particularly in combined arts and analytical subjects.

Key Research Interests:

  • Transition Pedagogies for Higher Education
  • Developing Critical Thinking and Academic Literacy
  • Interdisciplinary Curriculum Design for Senior Secondary Students
  • Student Support and Mentoring Models
  • Assessment for Learning in a Mixed-Discipline Context

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Wójcik, Z. (2023). “Bridging the Gap: Scaffolding Interdisciplinary Research Skills in A-Level and Diploma Students.” Journal of Curriculum Studies, 55(5), pp. 610-628. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2023-007)
  • Wójcik, Z. (Ed.). (2021). The Parvis Guide to Academic Success: Essential Skills for University Study. York: Parvis University Press. (Publication No: PSEM-G-2021-001)
  • Wójcik, Z. (2019). “Fostering Intellectual Curiosity: Project-Based Learning in a Combined Arts and Economics High School Programme.” Conference Proceedings: European Conference on Educational Research (ECER). (Publication No: PSEM-C-2019-005)

Dr. Anton Vassallo Lecturer in Festival & Event Management Department: Arts & Cultural Enterprise

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Tourism and Event Management, University of Surrey, UK
  • MA in Cultural Management, University of Malta, Malta
  • BA (Hons) in Communications, University of Bologna, Italy

Biography & Research Focus: Dr. Vassallo’s research focuses on the strategic management of arts festivals and large-scale cultural events, including their economic impact, community engagement, and sustainability. He has practical experience working with international music and arts festivals. His current work examines the use of digital technologies to enhance festival experiences and the challenges of event management in a post-pandemic world.

Key Research Interests:

  • Strategic Management of Arts Festivals
  • Economic and Social Impact of Cultural Events
  • Sustainability in Event Management (Environmental and Financial)
  • Digital Innovation in Festival Experiences
  • Volunteer Management in the Arts

Selected Fictional Publications:

  • Vassallo, A. (2024). “The Hybrid Festival: Blending Physical and Digital Experiences for Enhanced Audience Reach.” Event Management, 28(2), pp. 205-221. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2024-007)
  • Vassallo, A. (2022). Festivals as Catalysts: Driving Urban Regeneration and Cultural Tourism. Valetta: Midsea Books. (Publication No: PSEM-B-2022-004)
  • Vassallo, A., & Borg, M. (2020). “More Than Just a Show: Assessing the Long-Term Community Legacy of a Major European Capital of Culture Event.” Journal of Policy Research in Tourism, Leisure and Events, 12(3), pp. 301-318. (Publication No: PSEM-J-2020-001)