The Art Of Imitation

‘Imitation’ exerts profound influence on the civilization in the humanhistory, which is generally regarded as a basic instinct and naturaltendency as it frequently overwhelms those unique personalities orcongenital individuality. Conventionally,‘imitation’ is criticized asa derogatory term that suffered from doubt and controversial, thus it hasbeen rarely discussed in the musical education society as well as othereducational societies in China.Imitation singing, a fundamental training method developed for Solfeggioteaching, is based on the ‘imitation’ methodology. Aided with imitationsinging, it is often easier for trainees to attain proficient andessential musical languages that would help to guarantee a solidpreparation for his/her music career development.In this thesis, new insights into imitation concepts, based on thehistorical, educational and psychological perspectives as well asauthor’s own experience in Solfeggio learning, are presented to evaluatethe significance of ‘imitation’ in musical education.