Singing across cultures: a mixed methods inquiry into musical art and cultural identity in second language classrooms

This study examines the role of music in second language instruction, focusing on learner engagement, language development, and identity negotiation. Using a convergent mixed-methods design, the research integrates quantitative data on linguistic performance and classroom engagement with qualitative insights from interviews, journals, and observations. Findings indicate that music integration enhances vocabulary development, listening comprehension, and affective engagement. Qualitative findings further show that learners use music as both a linguistic and cultural resource to negotiate hybrid identities and engage with intercultural meanings. The study highlights music as a powerful yet underutilized pedagogical tool in second language classrooms.