Proposing an assessment framework for Cantonese operatic singing after reviewing the current practices in Hong Kong and Guangdong, China

ABSTRACT

For decades, the transmission of Cantonese opera in Hong Kong and China has faced considerable challenges, including a lack of valid assessment. This study aims to propose a holistic theoretical framework for the assessment of Cantonese operatic singing after 1) analysing two graded examinations of Peking opera and Cantonese opera and 2) interviewing ten Cantonese opera experts and their students from Guangdong and Hong Kong. Findings reveal that the designs of the existing graded examinations in xiqu are still developing; multiple problems exist in the daily assessment practices including: 1) dependence on subjective perception, 2) a focus on the assessment of performance skills and a lack of multidimensionality, and 3) an inclination to momentary judgment and a lack of sustainability in assessing and documenting students’ progress. Suggestions include introducing criterion- and standard-based assessments and increasing cooperation between artists and education experts, which may further promote the inheritance, popularity, and development of this traditional art form.

KEYWORDS:

• Xiqu
• Cantonese opera
• bloom’s taxonomy
• assessment framework
• traditional music
• transmission

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Yue Luo

Yue Luo received her BA in Japanese language and literature (2006) from Shenzhen University, MA in Solfeggio (2016) from Xinghai Conservatory of Music, and EdD in Music Education (2022) from the Education University of Hong Kong. Her research orientation focuses on the transmission and education of Cantonese opera, assessment, and the cultivation of musicianship. As a young researcher, Luo takes an active part in music education. Her research was recorded in many international conferences on music education, including the WAAE 2020 in Gainesville, Florida, USA, NAfME National Conference, Orlando, Florida.

Bo-Wah Leung

Bo-Wah Leung is professor in music education at the Department of Cultural and Creative Arts and Director of Research Centre for Transmission of Cantonese Opera at the Education University of Hong Kong. He is President of the International Society for Music Education (ISME) and Chair of the Board of Asia-Pacific Symposium for Music Education Research (APSMER). His research areas include transmission of traditional music and creativity in music teaching and learning.