The Use of Forensic Musicology in Criminal Investigations

Forensic musicology is the scientific study of music in a legal context. It can be used to help identify the composer of a piece of music, to determine the ownership of a copyright, or to resolve disputes over the use of musical works. Forensic musicologists may also be called upon to give expert testimony in court cases involving questions of music. Forensic musicology is a relatively new field, and there are no formal educations or training requirements for becoming a forensic musicologist. However, most forensic musicologists have advanced degrees in music theory, musicology, or a related field, and many also have experience working as professional musicians. Forensic musicologists use their knowledge of musical composition, history, and performance to answer questions raised in legal cases. Forensic musicologists typically collaborate with attorneys, judges, and other legal professionals to provide expert testimony or analysis in court cases. In some cases, they may also be asked to testify in front of a grand jury or give depositions. Forensic musicologists may also be consulted by law enforcement agencies to help identify unknown pieces of music or to authenticate recordings. This review will focus on the application of forensic musicology in civil and criminal cases.