Abstract

This study aimed to examine the current context of tenor singing in Puccini’s operas, develop a targeted teaching guidebook, and evaluate its effectiveness for Chinese undergraduate students. The research was conducted in three phases. First, six voice instructors from leading Chinese conservatories were interviewed to ascertain current practices in teaching Puccini arias. In Phase 2, the guidebook was developed based on input from five vocal experts from China and South Korea, incorporating both technical and interpretive strategies. In Phase 3, the guidebook’s content validity, accuracy, and practicality were evaluated through expert reviews and feedback from 16 undergraduate students at Xi’an Conservatory of Music. The findings revealed that although Chinese tenor students show strong interest in Puccini’s arias, participation remains limited due to the technical demands of the repertoire, emphasizing the need for a solid vocal foundation. Accordingly, the finalized guidebook features six carefully selected arias, integrated core vocal fundamentals, strategic technical exercises, performance training, and a structured study plan. After eight weeks of learning cycles, students reported high levels of satisfaction, noticeable improvement in vocal ability, and greater clarity in approaching Puccini’s music. These results affirm the guidebook’s value as an effective instructional resource for enhancing Puccini aria education in Chinese undergraduate vocal programs.

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