The Zhang Shu’s Vocal Works Handbook for teaching first-year Vocal Students at Quzhou University

Abstract

Background and Aim: Based on the teaching of Zhang Shu's vocal works and knowledge of work analysis, this article aims to develop a vocal teaching course plan for first-year students in the vocal music program at Quzhou University, 1）To study Zhang Shu's vocal works from experts，2）To Construct Zhang Shu’s vocal works handbook for first-year students, 3) To experiment teaching by using Zhang Shu’s vocal works handbook, 4) To evaluate teaching effectiveness by using Zhang Shu’s vocal works handbook.

Materials and Methods: This research was a mixed-method research between qualitative and experimental research. The qualitative research tools were an interview guideline and an observation from three Vocal music experts. The data was collected from a sample of 10 students. The experimental research tools were the Formative / Summative Test: comparing the Formative test and Summative test of first-year Vocal Students at Quzhou University, analyzing and summarizing the effectiveness of using the teaching guidebook. The research hypothesis was that the summative score of 90 and above is Excellent, 80- 89 is Very good, 70-79 is Good, and 60-69 is Pass.

Results: 1) Zhang Shu's vocal music works are unique, integrating ethnic and modern elements, and possessing high artistic value. In Zhang Shu's works, the melodic lines are smooth, and the harmonies are rich and varied, demonstrating his profound musical foundation. 2) The manual covers the background, style, and form analysis of Zhang Shu's vocal music works, suitable for first-year students to read. The manual includes vivid illustrations and interactive sections, which enhance students' interest and participation in learning. The design of the manual focuses on practicality and fun, making it easy for students to study and review independently. 3) In the experimental class, using the manual for teaching significantly improves students' understanding and appreciation of Zhang Shu's vocal music works. With the guidance of the manual, students can better grasp the style and emotional expression when performing Zhang Shu's works. The teaching experiment shows that the use of the manual helps to cultivate students' musical literacy and aesthetic ability. 4) Through the assessment criteria and exercises in the manual, students' learning effects of Zhang Shu's vocal music works can be objectively and comprehensively evaluated. The assessment results show that using the manual for teaching can significantly improve students' academic performance and musical expression ability, proving that the manual has high practical value and promotional significance.

Conclusion: Researchers, based on their research objectives, developed the "Handbook for Learning Zhang Shu's Vocal Works" by searching for information and interviewing experts in vocal teaching and Zhang Shu-related literature studies. From student questionnaires and classroom observation forms, it is evident that students are very receptive to the practical learning of Zhang Shu's vocal works. At the same time, they have also learned how to grasp the musical style of Zhang Shu and even contemporary Chinese composers. Therefore, teaching Zhang Shu's vocal works to freshman vocal music majors not only enhances their vocal skills and musical understanding but also cultivates their patriotic feelings, national consciousness, musical perspective, and aesthetics, as well as creative inspiration and imagination.