Exploring the integration of Mathematics and Music within the STEAM Framework: Insights from the Medieval Quadrivium

This paper explores the relationship between the medieval Quadrivium and contemporary STEM/STEAM methodologies, providing a valuable insight into educational practices. The Quadrivium conceived knowledge as an integrated entity, a concept that is reflected in contemporary STEM/STEAM model, which aims to overcome compartmentalized teaching by promoting critical thinking and creativity. Both approaches favour holistic learning, in which knowledge is not fragmented but part of a unified, interdisciplinary system. An experimental path is proposed in line with the activities of the Mathematical High School Project at the University of Salerno (Italy): an activity exploring the classical isoperimetric problem through mathematics, science, engineering and music. The study of mathematics becomes more concrete, engaging and meaningful, preparing students for an increasingly dynamic and multidisciplinary world.