Reforming Dance Education in Chinese Higher Education : Integrating Music for Holistic Student Development

Abstract

The integration of music and dance in higher education presents transformative potential for enhancing student engagement, creativity, and artistic literacy. This study aims to examine how incorporating music into dance education can reform traditional teaching methods and support holistic student development in Chinese universities. Using theoretical analysis and a literature review methodology, the research explores the principles guiding curriculum innovation, pedagogical design, and the organizational models necessary for effective music-dance integration. The findings indicate that a carefully structured and coordinated approach—emphasizing gradual progression, multimedia tools, and practice-based learning—significantly improves students’ dance performance, aesthetic sensitivity, and cultural understanding. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of establishing dynamic teaching evaluation systems that include both peer and self-assessment to enrich the learning experience. The integration of music not only enhances students’ technical and expressive capabilities in dance but also fosters a deeper appreciation for artistic forms and cultural expression. The study concludes with recommendations for curriculum designers and educators to adopt flexible, student-centered, and interdisciplinary approaches that reflect the evolving needs of contemporary performing arts education.