THE STUDY AND ANALYSIS OF MUSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF CHINESE POPULAR MUSIC

Aim: This study aimed to examine Chinese popular music (C-pop) by analyzing the artistic development process that occurs when traditional musical elements merge with contemporary components. Methods: The research employed a qualitative design. Thematic analysis was conducted on interviews with five music teachers and five student participants recruited from leading music institutions in Guangzhou. Results: The study defined C-pop through its characteristic song organization, pentatonic melodies combined with Western harmony, emotional lyrics, and dynamic instrumentation. It demonstrated how C-pop maintains Asian musical heritage by integrating conventional instruments with electronic devices and innovative production techniques. Findings highlighted the major role of digital platforms in expanding C-pop’s accessibility and global dissemination. Participants identified C-pop as an effective educational tool for preserving Chinese culture and engaging modern youth demographics. Conclusion and Implications: This research contributes to theoretical knowledge concerning cultural fusion in popular music genres. It provides practical guidance for musicians, artists, educational institutions, and cultural policy-makers seeking to preserve traditional musical art forms within contemporary contexts, emphasizing C-pop’s role in cultural continuity and global engagement.