Parvis School of Economics and Music Bari

Faculty

At Parvis School of Economics and Music, Bari, our faculty are the cornerstone of our academic and artistic excellence. They are distinguished scholars, renowned artists, and dedicated educators, drawn from across Europe and beyond, each bringing a wealth of experience, innovative research, and a passion for mentoring the next generation of leaders and creators.

Professor Elżbieta Nowakowska Chair of Behavioural Economics and Decision Science Discipline: Economics and Quantitative Analysis

Professor Nowakowska is a leading figure in European behavioural economics. Her research explores the psychological underpinnings of economic decision-making, with a particular focus on intertemporal choice and risk perception. Before joining Parvis, she held prestigious research fellowships in Germany and the United Kingdom. Professor Nowakowska is known for her engaging lecturing style, making complex theories accessible and inspiring students to question conventional economic assumptions. She is deeply committed to fostering a research-led teaching environment.

Selected Publications:

  • Nowakowska, E. (2024). The Architecture of Choice: Nudging for Sustainable Futures. Parvis University Press. (PARVIS-BK-2024-88A321)
  • Nowakowska, E., & Bianchi, L. (2023). Cognitive Biases in Digital Financial Markets: An Empirical Study. Journal of Economic Psychology Quarterly, 45(3), 112-130. (PARVIS-JRNL-2023-018)
  • Nowakowska, E. (2022). Time Discounting and Climate Change Policy Adherence. Proceedings of the International Symposium on Economic Futures, Bari. (PARVIS-CONF-2022-003)

Dr. Tiago Valente Senior Lecturer in Econometrics and Data Science Discipline: Economics and Quantitative Analysis

Dr. Valente specialises in advanced econometric modelling and the application of machine learning techniques to large-scale economic datasets. His work often addresses issues of inequality and labour market dynamics. Educated in Portugal and the Netherlands, Dr. Valente brings a robust quantitative skillset and a keen interest in the societal impact of economic research. He actively involves postgraduate students in his research projects, providing them with hands-on experience in cutting-edge data analysis.

Selected Publications:

  • Valente, T. (2024). Machine Learning Approaches to Forecasting Regional Economic Indicators. Applied Econometrics Review, 12(1), 45-63. (PARVIS-JRNL-2024-002)
  • Valente, T., & Conti, S. (2023). Causal Inference in Algorithmic Labour Markets: A Methodological Review. Parvis Working Papers in Economics, No. 2023-05. (PARVIS-WP-2023-005)
  • Valente, T. (2022). Econometric Analysis of Big Data: Tools and Applications. Bari Academic Press. (PARVIS-BK-2022-91B765)

Maestro Lyra Stavrou Professor of Piano Performance and Chamber Music Discipline: Music Performance and Composition

Maestro Stavrou is an acclaimed concert pianist with a distinguished international career, having performed in major concert halls across Europe and the Americas. Originally from Cyprus, her interpretative depth and technical brilliance are matched by her dedication to teaching. At Parvis, she mentors advanced pianists, focusing on repertoire, performance psychology, and the collaborative art of chamber music. She is a passionate advocate for contemporary music alongside the classical canon.

Selected Works/Recordings:

  • Stavrou, L. (Pianist). (2024). Mediterranean Echoes: Piano Works by Scarlatti, Ravel, and Hadjidakis. [CD Recording]. Ancora Classics. (PARVIS-ART-2024-R01)
  • Solo Recital: “From Vienna to the Aegean,” Parvis Concert Hall, Bari. (March 2023). (PARVIS-ART-2023-P02)
  • Stavrou, L. (2022). The Evolving Role of the Pianist in 21st Century Chamber Ensembles. Journal of Musical Arts Education, 7(2), 88-101. (PARVIS-JRNL-2022-031)

Dr. Finn Ó Súilleabháin Lecturer in Composition and Music Technology Discipline: Music Performance and Composition

Dr. Ó Súilleabháin, hailing from Ireland, is an innovative composer whose work often integrates acoustic instruments with live electronics and algorithmic processes. His compositions have been commissioned and performed by leading contemporary music ensembles. His research interests include interactive music systems and the aesthetics of technologically mediated sound. He champions a hands-on, experimental approach in his composition and music technology workshops.

Selected Compositions/Publications:

  • Ó Súilleabháin, F. (2024). Quantum Entanglements for String Quartet and Live Electronics. Premiered by Quartetto Elettronico, Rome. (PARVIS-ART-2024-C01)
  • Ó Súilleabháin, F. (2023). Generative Systems in Contemporary Compositional Practice. Leonardo Music Journal, 33, 56-62. (PARVIS-JRNL-2023-022)
  • Ó Súilleabháin, F. (2022). Sound Installation: “Resonant Data,” Bari Digital Arts Festival. (PARVIS-ART-2022-I01)

Professor Isolde Vermeer Head of Computational Social Science Discipline: Computational Social Science and Digital Humanities

Professor Vermeer, from the Netherlands, is a pioneer in the field of computational social science, with expertise in network analysis, agent-based modelling, and the study of online collective behaviour. Her work often has policy implications for digital governance and understanding societal resilience. She fosters a highly interdisciplinary research group at Parvis, bridging economics, sociology, and computer science.

Selected Publications:

  • Vermeer, I. (2024). Networks of Influence: Modelling Opinion Dynamics in Digital Societies. Cambridge University Press. (ISBN: 978-1108XXXXXX – Fictional)
  • Vermeer, I., & Esposito, M. (2023). The Spread of Misinformation: A Network-Analytical Approach. Journal of Computational Social Dynamics, 5(4), 301-319. (PARVIS-JRNL-2023-007)
  • Vermeer, I. (2022). Ethical Frameworks for AI in Social Simulation. AI and Society, 37(1), 145-158. (PARVIS-JRNL-2022-015)

Dr. Radu Ionescu Associate Professor of Sound Design and Immersive Audio Discipline: Sound Design and Music Technology

Dr. Ionescu, originally from Romania, is an expert in sound design for interactive media, virtual reality, and immersive installations. His research explores spatial audio perception and the creation of compelling narrative experiences through sound. He has collaborated on numerous award-winning digital art projects and games. At Parvis, he leads innovative modules on ambisonics, procedural audio, and interactive sound programming.

Selected Works/Publications:

  • Ionescu, R. (Sound Designer). (2024). Chronoscape VR Experience. Exhibited at Ars Electronica, Linz. (PARVIS-ART-2024-VR01)
  • Ionescu, R. (2023). Procedural Audio for Dynamic Virtual Environments: A Perceptual Evaluation. Journal of the Audio Engineering Society, 71(9), 680-695. (PARVIS-JRNL-2023-011)
  • Ionescu, R., & Moretti, A. (2022). The Craft of Immersive Sound: Theory and Practice. Routledge. (ISBN: 978-0367XXXXX – Fictional)

Ms. Clotilde Dubois Senior Lecturer in Arts Management and Cultural Policy Discipline: Arts Management and Cultural Economics

Ms. Dubois, from Belgium, brings extensive experience from her career as a leading arts manager and policy consultant for major European cultural institutions. Her teaching focuses on strategic planning for arts organisations, cultural entrepreneurship, and the economic impact of the creative industries. She is passionate about empowering students to become effective and visionary leaders in the cultural sector.

Selected Publications/Reports:

  • Dubois, C. (2024). Sustainable Models for Cultural Heritage in the Digital Age. Parvis Policy Briefs, No. 2. (PARVIS-PB-2024-002)
  • Dubois, C., & Ricci, F. (2023). Audience Development Strategies for Regional Theatres in Italy: A Comparative Study. International Journal of Arts Management, 25(3), 40-55. (PARVIS-JRNL-2023-025)
  • Dubois, C. (2022). The Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Funding Contemporary Art. Report for the European Cultural Forum. (PARVIS-REP-2022-004)

Mr. Lars Ahlgren Professor of Visual Communication and Digital Illustration Discipline: Visual Arts and Digital Design

Professor Ahlgren, a Swedish designer and illustrator, is renowned for his distinctive visual style and his work across branding, editorial illustration, and interactive narrative design. His career includes collaborations with international publications and design agencies. He emphasises conceptual thinking and technical mastery in his teaching, encouraging students to develop a unique artistic voice and a strong professional portfolio.

Selected Exhibitions/Publications:

  • Ahlgren, L. (2024). Solo Exhibition: “Narrative Threads,” Galleria Civica, Bari. (PARVIS-ART-2024-E03)
  • Ahlgren, L. (2023). The Illustrator’s Mind: Process and Practice in Digital Storytelling. Thames & Hudson. (ISBN: 978-0500XXXXX – Fictional)
  • Ahlgren, L. (2022). Cover Art and Illustrations for “European Folktales Reimagined.” (PARVIS-ART-2022-IL02)

Dr. Aoife Byrne Lecturer in Economic History and Development Economics Discipline: Economics and Quantitative Analysis

Dr. Byrne, from Ireland, focuses her research on the economic history of Southern Europe and contemporary issues in development economics, particularly concerning microfinance and sustainable agriculture. Her doctoral work examined post-war economic reconstruction in the Mediterranean. She is known for her engaging narrative style in lectures, connecting historical trends to current global challenges, and for her commitment to field-based research methodologies.

Selected Publications:

  • Byrne, A. (2024). Agricultural Cooperatives and Rural Development: Lessons from Puglia. Journal of Development Studies, 60(2), 215-230. (PARVIS-JRNL-2024-005)
  • Byrne, A. (2023). Rebuilding Economies: Historical Perspectives on Resilience in Southern Europe. Palgrave Macmillan. (PARVIS-BK-2023-77C890)
  • Byrne, A. (2022). The Long-Term Impact of Migration on Sending Communities: An Italian Case Study. Historical Economic Perspectives, 15(1), 45-62. (PARVIS-JRNL-2022-019)

Mr. Mateo Kovač Visiting Professor of Orchestral Conducting Discipline: Music Performance and Composition

Mr. Kovač, a distinguished conductor from Croatia, brings a wealth of experience leading orchestras across Central and Eastern Europe. He is known for his dynamic interpretations of both classical symphonic repertoire and contemporary orchestral works. As a Visiting Professor, he works intensively with Parvis student ensembles, focusing on rehearsal techniques, score analysis, and the art of musical leadership.

Selected Performances (as Conductor):

  • Parvis Symphony Orchestra. (2024). Mahler Symphony No. 1. Petruzzelli Theatre, Bari. (PARVIS-ART-2024-P04)
  • Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra. (2023). Shostakovich Symphony No. 5. Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall, Zagreb.
  • Kovač, M. (2022). Reflections on Conducting Dvořák: Tradition and Innovation. Slavic Music Review, 8(1). (PARVIS-JRNL-2022-028)

Dr. Sofia Lundgren Senior Researcher in Digital Humanities and AI Ethics Discipline: Computational Social Science and Digital Humanities

Dr. Lundgren, hailing from Sweden, is at the forefront of research into the ethical implications of artificial intelligence within the humanities and creative arts. Her work explores bias in algorithms, digital authorship, and the impact of AI on cultural heritage. She leads several international collaborative projects and is a strong advocate for responsible innovation in the digital sphere.

Selected Publications:

  • Lundgren, S. (2025). AI and Authenticity in the Arts: A Critical Inquiry. MIT Press. (PARVIS-BK-2025-03D142) (Forthcoming)
  • Lundgren, S., & Rossi, P. (2024). Algorithmic Bias in Cultural Recommendation Systems: A Case Study. Digital Humanities Quarterly, 18(1). (PARVIS-JRNL-2024-001)
  • Lundgren, S. (2023). Preserving Digital Heritage: Challenges and AI-driven Solutions. Proceedings of the International Conference on Digital Preservation, Florence. (PARVIS-CONF-2023-010)

Ms. Annelies De Graaf Lecturer in Interactive Sound Art and Creative Coding Discipline: Sound Design and Music Technology

Ms. De Graaf, from the Netherlands, is a practicing sound artist and creative coder whose installations explore the relationship between sound, space, and human interaction. Her work has been featured in new media festivals across Europe. She teaches students to use programming languages like Max/MSP and Python to create their own interactive sonic experiences, fostering an experimental and playful approach to technology.

Selected Works/Exhibitions:

  • De Graaf, A. (2024). Interactive Sound Installation: “Acoustic Cartographies.” STRP Festival, Eindhoven. (PARVIS-ART-2024-I02)
  • De Graaf, A. (2023). Teaching Creative Coding for Sound Artists. Journal of Music, Technology & Education, 16(2), 189-201. (PARVIS-JRNL-2023-015)
  • De Graaf, A. (2022). Workshop Facilitator: “Generative Soundscapes with Python,” Sonar+D, Barcelona.

Dr. Niko পাপাউতসাকিস (Papaoutsakis) Associate Professor of Cultural Economics and Creative Industries Policy Discipline: Arts Management and Cultural Economics

Dr. Papaoutsakis, from Greece, researches the economic structures of creative industries, with a focus on film, music, and digital media markets. His work informs cultural policy development, particularly concerning intellectual property and support for emerging artists. He has advised governmental bodies and cultural organisations on strategies for fostering creative economies.

Selected Publications:

  • Papaoutsakis, N. (2024). The Platform Economy and its Impact on Independent Musicians in Southern Europe. Creative Industries Journal, 17(1), 75-92. (PARVIS-JRNL-2024-008)
  • Papaoutsakis, N. (2023). Valuing Culture: Economic Perspectives on Heritage and the Arts. Parvis University Press. (PARVIS-BK-2023-15E603)
  • Papaoutsakis, N., & Dubois, C. (2022). Copyright Reform and Digital Single Market: Implications for Creative SMEs. European Journal of Cultural Management and Policy, 12(2), 112-129. (PARVIS-JRNL-2022-011)

Ms. Ester Varga Lecturer in Fine Art and Transmedia Practice Discipline: Visual Arts and Digital Design

Ms. Varga, originally from Hungary, is a contemporary artist whose practice spans painting, video, and digital media, often exploring themes of memory, identity, and urban landscapes. Her work has been exhibited internationally in galleries and biennales. She encourages her students to experiment across media and to develop conceptually driven art projects that engage with contemporary societal issues.

Selected Exhibitions/Works:

  • Varga, E. (2024). Solo Exhibition: “Urban Palimpsests,” Kunsthalle Wien Project Space, Vienna. (PARVIS-ART-2024-E05)
  • Varga, E. (2023). Fluid Identities: Transmedia Approaches to Self-Portraiture. Artist Monograph. Sternberg Press. (PARVIS-ART-2023-M01)
  • Varga, E. (2022). Video Installation: “Borrowed Memories,” part of “European Perspectives” group show, ZKM Karlsruhe. (PARVIS-ART-2022-V03)

Professor emeritus Jānis Bērziņš Founding Fellow in Musicology and Cultural Heritage Discipline: Music Performance and Composition / Arts Management & Cultural Economics

Professor emeritus Bērziņš, from Latvia, played a pivotal role in establishing the interdisciplinary ethos of Parvis. Though formally retired, he remains an active mentor and researcher, specialising in Baltic music history and the preservation of intangible cultural heritage. His extensive publications have illuminated the musical traditions of North-Eastern Europe and their connections with broader European culture. He occasionally delivers guest lectures and masterclasses.

Selected Seminal Publications:

  • Bērziņš, J. (2015). The Singing Nations: Music and Identity in the Baltic States. Oxford University Press. (ISBN: 978-019XXXXXX – Fictional example from before current publication scheme)
  • Bērziņš, J. (2008). Polyphony of the Forest: Archaic Musical Forms in Latvian Folk Traditions. Ethnomusicology Forum, 17(2), 199-221.
  • Bērziņš, J. (Ed.). (2005). Documenting and Safeguarding Musical Heritage in the Digital Era. UNESCO Publishing.