Abstract

The fusion genre merges Peking Opera’s narrative depth and cultural symbolism with Western music’s harmonic, melodic, and rhythmic diversity, creating a hybrid musical form that preserves traditional art while resonating with contemporary audiences. The objective is to investigate the fusion development of Chinese popular songs inspired by Peking Opera and Western music genres in the context of educational studies. The research focuses on songs like “You Shan Lian,” analyzed through qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews, thematic analysis, and field observations. The study was conducted in educational settings across urban China with 24 informants, including scholars, musicians, and experienced listeners. The analysis revealed that fusion music enhances student engagement, encourages creative expression, and provides an interdisciplinary platform for exploring cultural narratives and global perspectives. Despite these benefits, challenges such as diluting traditional elements and limited pedagogical resources were identified. The findings underscore the need for structured methodologies to effectively integrate fusion music into curricula. Suggestions include developing long-term frameworks for teaching hybrid music and exploring its impact across diverse cultural and educational contexts. This research contributes to music education by promoting innovative approaches that harmonize tradition and modernity, fostering inclusivity and global awareness.

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