Developing Interdisciplinary Competency in Voice Performance: A Phenomenological Study of Higher Education in China

Area of Science:

• Music Education
• Higher Education Studies
• Performance Studies

Background:

• Interdisciplinary competencies are increasingly vital in higher education for holistic student development.
• Voice performance training traditionally focuses on specific pedagogical methods, often lacking broader interdisciplinary integration.
• Understanding the unique context of Chinese higher education is crucial for developing relevant performance curricula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the experiences and perceptions of interdisciplinary competencies for voice performance in Chinese higher education.
• To identify key interdisciplinary domains essential for contemporary vocal performers.
• To explore the unique characteristics and limitations of interdisciplinary approaches in China.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed.
• Semistructured interviews were conducted with four vocal education experts in China.
• Data were analyzed using coding and thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Key interdisciplinary domains identified include life sciences (physiology, anatomy), humanities (history, culture), and digital technologies.
• Chinese interdisciplinary competency uniquely blends Italian bel canto with Chinese Indigenous vocalization methods, emphasizing cultural literacy.
• Limitations in the current interdisciplinary framework were also noted.

Conclusions:

• Interdisciplinary competencies are crucial for modern voice performance education in China, integrating diverse knowledge domains.
• The findings offer a unique perspective on Chinese higher education voice performance, informing global pedagogical practices.
• Further research can build upon these insights to enhance curriculum development and training methodologies worldwide.