The Role of Arts Education in Preserving Traditional Folk Music in Guizhou, China

Povzetek

Introduction: Guizhou Province in southwest China is renowned for its rich traditions of folk music, particularly among ethnic communities such as the Dong and Yi. These musical forms serve as cultural archives, transmitting oral history, identity, and communal values. However, modernization, urban migration, and the rise of globalized entertainment threaten their continuity. In response, arts education has been identified as a potential mechanism for preserving this intangible cultural heritage. Purpose: This study investigates how arts education contributes to the preservation of traditional folk music in Guizhou, with emphasis on school-community collaboration, curriculum integration, and intergenerational learning. Methodology: Using a mixed-methods design, the study involved two focus group discussions with 12 educators and cultural practitioners, and a structured survey administered to 200 secondary school students. Qualitative data were analyzed thematically, while quantitative data were examined using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, and linear regression. Results: Qualitative analysis revealed three key themes. First, school-based exposure to traditional music enhanced students’ cultural awareness and musical literacy. Second, intergenerational learning and community engagement enriched educational experiences through direct contact with traditional bearers. Third, implementation challenges were reported, including inadequate teacher training and a lack of culturally relevant materials. Quantitative findings indicated moderate exposure to traditional music (M = 24.00, SD = 10.10) and cultural identity (M = 26.01, SD = 9.85), but no significant correlation between the two variables (r = −0.05, p = .46), suggesting exposure alone may not predict identity development. Conclusion: While arts education offers potential for cultural preservation, its effectiveness depends on pedagogical depth, community collaboration, and institutional support to ensure the sustainability and transmission of intangible musical heritage.