Harp-Based Prenatal Music Instruction: A Design Study on Aesthetic Resilience, Mother-Infant Communicative Musicality, and Lifelong Music Engagement

Description This study presents a theoretically grounded 12-week harp-based prenatal music education program framed by communicative musicality, aesthetic positive pedagogy, and environmental aesthetics. Using a Design and Development Research (DDR) methodology combined with quasi-experimental measures and interpretative phenomenological analysis, the study examines the effects of harp learning on maternal psychological resilience and mother–infant affective bonding among pregnant women in Taiwan (N = 60, gestational weeks 14–32). Quantitative instruments include EPDS, PSRS, and PAI scales. Expected outcomes indicate significant improvements in psychological wellbeing and enhanced prenatal attachment, suggesting the program’s potential as a non-clinical public health support model with cross-cultural applicability. Keywords Prenatal Music Education Harp Instruction Communicative Musicality Aesthetic Positive Pedagogy Maternal Wellbeing Design and Development Research Lifelong Music Engagement