Thinking Beyond Chinese Music*

Knowledge production today often faces limitations due to outdated paradigms inherited from previous scholars. To advance, we must challenge these established frameworks and adopt new methodologies that reflect contemporary values. The rise of global music history aims to broaden music studies beyond Western traditions, recognizing the diverse contexts in which music operates and its role in shaping social realities across cultures. This paper proposes a reimagined conceptualization of Chinese music that aligns with global music scholarship. Drawing inspiration from Chen Kuan-Hsing’s “Asia as Method,” it emphasizes the need to move beyond Eurocentric perspectives, fostering a more inclusive understanding of music. By acknowledging Asia’s active role in knowledge creation, we can disrupt traditional narratives and embrace a richer, more nuanced view of music that encompasses the active role of social actors. This shift is essential for developing a truly global discipline in music studies that reflects the complexities of our interconnected world.