Sarah Thirtle

Postgraduate Researcher


Sarah is a PhD researcher investigating the connections and relationships between songwriting and Involuntary Musical Imagery (otherwise known as earworms). She returned to academia in 2021 to study for a Masters in Songwriting after building a career in the music and creative industries. She began her PhD studies at Birmingham City University in 2024, and was delighted to be asked to become a Visiting Lecturer on the BA Music Business course, where her knowledge gained through 20+ years in the live music sector, artist management and arts funding will be put to good use. She is also a Trustee for the Music Venue Trust and the Director of Strategic Development at Creative United, a social enterprise supporting creative businesses and artists’ livelihoods.

Research Updates