Music Education and Modern Software: How Using Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) Software Influences Teaching Academic Singing?

Abstract

This study explores how well DAW software works for students' ‘Academic Singing’ training in raising their motivation and academic performance. The practical portion included a case study based on the BandLab DAW system, including its educational analysis. A five-month experiment was conducted with 150 s-year [Harbin Normal University] Conservatory students in the ‘Academic Singing’ discipline to assess the usage of BandLab. Twenty instructors of the Music Performance Basics course were further interviewed. The collected data were analysed and structured using the key trend measurement method. It was discovered that no DAW technology was previously used as part of the ‘Academic Singing’ discipline. Additionally, 52% of students began using BandLab for extra practice 2–3 times per week. Every day, 25% of students participated in the programme. Teachers reported an increase in interest from 84% of students. The findings can be used to examine the use of DAW technology in participatory disciplines.