Sustainable Transmission of Suzhou Pingtan Through Education and Community Engagement

Abstract

Suzhou Pingtan, a traditional narrative musical art of the Jiangnan region, is facing challenges in transmission due to urbanization, modernization, and the decline in the Suzhou dialect. This study investigates how community engagement contributes to the sustainable transmission of Pingtan by focusing on educational outreach, intergenerational learning, and community-led promotion. Conducted in Gusu District, Suzhou, the research employed qualitative methods including participant observation, semi-structured interviews with three key informants, and document analysis. Thematic analysis revealed that informal educational initiatives in community spaces spark initial cultural interest, master-apprentice mentorship preserves authenticity and dialectical expression, and public cultural events expand the art form’s reach while fostering cultural pride. Interconnected pathways form a self-reinforcing cycle, maintaining both artistic integrity and social relevance. The findings emphasize the value of integrating grassroots participation into heritage preservation strategies, suggesting that future initiatives should enhance school–community partnerships, promote cross-generational mentorship, and leverage digital media for broader outreach. By emphasizing community agency, the study offers practical insights for policymakers, educators, and cultural practitioners in sustaining Suzhou Pingtan as a living tradition.