SYNERGY OF FORMAL AND NON-FORMAL EDUCATION IN THE TRAINING OF POP VOCAL TEACHERS

Modern requirements for the professional training of pop vocal specialists necessitate using various learning formats that foster technical and creative skills. Given the evolving music industry and the growing influence of digital technologies, combining formal education provided by higher education institutions with non-formal education plays a crucial role in preparing highly qualified professionals. Formal education offers fundamental knowledge in music theory, vocal technique, teaching methodology, and music psychology and pedagogy. It encompasses academic learning (lectures, seminars, and practical classes), individual vocal lessons, choral and ensemble singing, and pedagogical practice. Meanwhile, non-formal education supplements traditional learning through master classes, training sessions with leading vocalists and educators, participation in competitions and festivals, self-education, online courses, and studio experience. The synergy between formal and non-formal education enhances the methodological toolkit of educators, fosters flexibility in teaching, and integrates modern trends and technologies into the learning process. This approach aligns with the concept of lifelong learning, which is essential for professional growth and adaptability in the contemporary music industry. The article explores formal and non-formal education integration as an effective approach to training pop vocal specialists. Research methods include theoretical analysis of scientific literature, educational programs, and legal documents, comparative analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of different educational formats, and a systematic examination of vocal pedagogy as a complex system. The findings highlight that the optimal combination of these two forms of education facilitates comprehensive skill development, ensuring high-quality training and competitiveness of pop vocal specialists in a rapidly changing cultural and technological landscape. Future research directions include the development and testing of models for integrating formal and non-formal education, evaluating the effectiveness of various non-formal learning formats in developing professional competencies, and establishing assessment criteria for pop vocal specialists’ professional competencies based on their formal and non-formal education outcomes.