A Survey of the Chinese Folk Song Teaching Method for First-Year Students at Xinyu University

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the teaching methods of Chinese folk songs for first-year students at Xinyu University.The research methodology was qualitative research, using survey forms and interview guidelines as research instruments. The key informants were three music teachers, and the collected data were analyzed through content analysis. The findings indicate that the university offers a variety of Chinese folk song teaching methods, which are rooted in simplicity and cultural authenticity. Chinese folk music primarily relies on the pentatonic scale (five notes: do, re, mi, sol, la), which is relatively easy for beginners as it avoids the complexity of a full seven-note scale. A common teaching technique is the call-and-response method, where teachers sing or play a short phrase that students repeat. To reinforce rhythm and melody, movement-based activities such as hand tapping, foot tapping, or swaying to the rhythm are incorporated into lessons. Furthermore, the teaching approach emphasizes an emotional connection to the music by using folk songs with clear and familiar melodies, encouraging learning through listening, singing, and movement. Teachers also highlight the cultural and historical context of the songs, sharing their stories and meanings to deepen students' understanding of the emotional content and cultural significance embedded in Chinese folk music.