Harmonising Traditions: An Ethnographic Exploration of Nanyin Pedagogy in Singapore

Abstract

The study explores how Nanyin as a traditional Chinese music art form originating in China is taught and learned in Singapore. Educational materials and historical contexts highlight variations in ideologies, learning methods, and teaching approaches for Nanyin across regions, which can be attributed to socio-cultural differences. The practice of Nanyin is intricately tied to traditions, rituals and Confucian values that have always been part of Chinese culture. In a multi-cultural society like Singapore, its endeavour to establish a distinct and unique musical identity has led to the development of cultural policies which have shaped the practice of Nanyin in the country. This research employs an ethnographic approach to uncover the disparities between the historical, aesthetical and mythological perspectives of Nanyin to discover the driving factors behind its learning and teaching practices. In doing so, it documents the evolution of Nanyin education in Singapore, emphasising its significance as an important aspect of the Chinese culture. This paper presents insights gathered from interviews with practitioners from China, Taiwan and Indonesia, providing valuable perspectives on pedagogical models. By examining these diverse approaches, it offers a framework for the continued learning and teaching of Nanyin in Singapore, contributing to the preservation and appreciation of this musical heritage.



Author Information
Lyn Lee, Independent Scholar, Singapore

Paper Information
Conference: ACAH2024
Stream: Teaching and Learning the Arts

This paper is part of the ACAH2024 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Lee L. (2024) Harmonising Traditions: An Ethnographic Exploration of Nanyin Pedagogy in Singapore ISSN: 2186-229X – The Asian Conference on Arts & Humanities 2024 Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 57-69) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2186-229X.2024.6
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2186-229X.2024.6


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Posted by James Alexander Gordon