DEVELOPMENT OF TEACHING AND LEARNING COMPULSORY COURSE IN MUSIC THEORY MODEL FOR MUSIC PERFORMANCE MAJORS

Abstract

Innovation and optimization of teaching models are not only crucial for promoting educational reform and enhancing teaching quality but also essential for cultivating high-quality teaching staff. With the rapid advancement of society and continuous technological innovation, traditional teaching models are increasingly unable to meet the evolving demands of the new era and face unprecedented challenges. To effectively address these challenges, the education sector must adapt to the changing times and continuously innovate to develop teaching models that align with 21st-century educational requirements. This study is grounded in the teaching practices of music theory courses in the music performance major, and it thoroughly explores and summarizes a novel teaching model centered on the core guiding principle of "integrating performance major elements to enhance active learning motivation." This model emphasizes "constructing a performance-oriented learning environment" as its foundational teaching strategy, integrates the knowledge system of music theory with performance practice as its primary teaching objective, and ultimately aims to strengthen students' practical skills.Music theory courses (Fundamental Music Theory, Harmony, and Music Form) are essential components of the undergraduate curriculum for students majoring in music performance. However, the current disconnect between music theory courses and the practical aspects of music performance, combined with the inherent complexity of these courses and traditional teaching methods, has led to a situation where a large number of students are enrolled in music theory courses that occupy significant class hours but yield less-than-ideal learning outcomes. This study investigates the current state of music theory education in the music performance major at eleven conservatories in China. Using qualitative and quantitative research methods, it aims to develop a teaching model that better aligns with the needs of music performance and the development of music performance talents. Based on an in-depth study of four fundamental teaching theories and the current teaching practices of music theory courses in the music performance major, as well as valid data collected from student questionnaires and teacher interviews, the IIIA music theory teaching model was developed. The IIIA model adheres to the basic framework of educational theory while incorporating the specific context of music theory instruction. It aims to inject new vitality into the teaching of music theory for performance majors and achieve the organic integration of "music theory and music performance" during students' undergraduate years. Additionally, it seeks to ensure that music theory serves as a long-term knowledge base and practical tool for students' professional and vocational development. Through expert evaluation, the IIIA model is assessed and refined based on feedback to enhance its effectiveness in music theory courses for music performance majors. Finally, this paper reviews the development process of the IIIA model, summarizes its key features, and explores future directions for further improvement.

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