The Literacy of Traditional Chinese Music and Modern Practices in Contemporary Music Therapy in China

Abstract

This study investigates the integration of traditional Chinese music into contemporary music therapy practices in China, with a focus on how cultural heritage and modern therapeutic approaches intersect to support psychological and emotional well-being. Employing qualitative methods—including interviews and observational analysis—this research examines the therapeutic use of traditional Chinese instruments such as the Guqin, Erhu, Pipa, and Guzheng. These instruments are not only valued for their aesthetic qualities but are also deeply rooted in the philosophical and medical principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), particularly the Five-Tone Therapy system, which links musical tones to internal organs and emotional regulation. The findings reveal that while traditional music remains central in many therapeutic contexts, particularly among older populations and in culturally conservative regions, there is a growing trend toward integrating modern music genres, including Chinese pop, Western classical, and electronic music. In urban centers such as Shanghai and Shenzhen, music therapists are increasingly adopting client-centered approaches and leveraging technological innovations, including artificial intelligence and virtual reality to enhance personalization and engagement. This study contributes to the expanding discourse on culturally informed therapeutic models, proposing a framework that harmonizes traditional practices with contemporary innovations to address the diverse emotional and psychological needs of patients in modern Chinese society.