We're absolutely thrilled at GondwanaSound to find out that Sue Miller is the winner of the British Ethnomusicology Forum's 2009 prize for the best student paper. Presented at the 2009 annual conference hosted by Liverpool John Moores University, Sue's paper is entitled, "The Thieving Magpie ": Musical Borrowing, Quotes and Signifiers in Cuban Charanga Improvisation.

The panel thought this was highly original work, demonstrating an expert knowledge of the subject matter, using superb examples chosen with a performer’s as well as an audience perspective, pertinent and persuasive use of relevant theory woven into the narrative, and tightly timed presentation.

Sue contributes reviews to GondwanaSound and continues to tour her Charanga Band as well as making regular trips to Cuba.

More details of the prize can be found at The British Forum for Ethnomusicology Website.