The Social Functions of Guangdong Yueju Opera in Enhancing Musical Literacy

Guangdong Yueju Opera, including Cantonese opera, Chaozhou music, and other regional folk traditions, plays a crucial role in cultural heritage, education, and social cohesion. This study investigates the social functions of Guangdong Yueju Opera in enhancing musical literacy. Using a qualitative research approach, data were collected through field observations, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis. The research was conducted in Guangdong Province, China, with key observations at Guangdong Dabu Experimental Primary School and local cultural festivals. A Cantonese opera instructor and music educator served as a key informant, providing insights into the pedagogical role of traditional music. Thematic analysis revealed that traditional Guangdong music enhances technical, cultural, and linguistic literacy, contributing to students' understanding of historical narratives, performance techniques, and regional dialects. However, digital engagement gaps and limited formal education integration hinder broader dissemination. The study suggests expanding digital resources, incorporating Guangdong music into school curricula, and promoting interactive educational initiatives to ensure cultural sustainability. Future research should explore the impact of digital learning tools and cross-cultural music education models to further enhance the transmission of Guangdong music.