Mini Review of Emerging Trends in Ethnomusicology and Scientific Innovation in Chinese Musical Heritage Research (2020–2025)

Abstract

Ethnomusicology has traditionally focused on the study of music within its cultural and social contexts, emphasizing ethnographic investigation of musical practices and communities. In recent years, however, technological innovation and interdisciplinary research approaches have increasingly influenced the ways in which musical traditions are documented, analysed, and transmitted. This study examines the intersection between ethnomusicology and scientific innovation in relation to Chinese musical culture through a mini-review of Scopus-indexed publications published between 2020 and 2025. Using thematic analysis, nine selected studies were analysed to identify emerging research trends and interdisciplinary developments within this field. The findings reveal four primary research themes: digital innovation in ethnomusicology, technological applications in cultural heritage preservation, analytical approaches to research and innovation mapping, and transnational Chinese musical identity. The analysis demonstrates that contemporary ethnomusicology increasingly incorporates digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual learning platforms, and computational analytical tools, which expand the methodological possibilities for studying musical traditions. At the same time, technological innovation has created new opportunities for safeguarding intangible cultural heritage through digital archives, immersive media technologies, and online dissemination platforms. In addition, the review highlights the growing use of bibliometric analysis and computational methods to examine research trends and innovation systems related to cultural heritage studies. Finally, studies on diaspora communities illustrate how Chinese musical traditions continue to evolve through processes of migration, cultural exchange, and global cultural interaction. Overall, the findings suggest that ethnomusicology is increasingly positioned at the intersection of cultural heritage research, digital humanities, and interdisciplinary innovation studies. By synthesizing recent literature, this study provides insights into how ethnomusicological research related to Chinese musical culture is evolving within technologically mediated and globally interconnected research environments.