Televised Music Education in China: Perspectives and Strategies from CCTV‘s Music Open Class

Abstract

Currently, the number of music knowledge education TV programs in China is extremely limited overall. Most music TV programs are confined to entertainment performances and talent competitions. The only program that systematically popularises professional music knowledge—such as music theory, harmony, music history, and instrumental knowledge—is CCTV's Music Open Class. This study takes CCTV's music education program, Music Open Class, as its research subject. It aims to investigate the public's level of basic music knowledge, their needs and preferences regarding the program, and to explore how to produce high-quality music programs that can educate and culturally guide the public's musical aesthetics and literacy, while also examining the current development direction and improvement measures for such TV programs. A questionnaire survey was conducted from July to August 2022 via online channels. A total of 50 questionnaires were distributed, with 33 returned and 30 valid responses. Respondents were divided into two groups: those with formal music training (n=15) and those without (n=15). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The main findings are as follows: (1) among the non-trained group, only 4 respondents could read staff notation, and the majority lacked basic music theory knowledge; (2) 83% of respondents had never watched Music Open Class, while 80% considered music education TV programs "very necessary"; and (3) viewers most desired content on music fundamentals, composition techniques, and vocal methods. The study recommends that music education TV programs strengthen the popularisation of basic music knowledge, increase content on composition, and enhance promotional efforts. This study provides empirical evidence for the content optimization and audience targeting of music education television programs in China.