DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF MUSIC EDUCATION: THE POTENTIALS OF THE INTERNET OF MUSICAL THINGS AND SMART MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS IN CONTEMPORARY TEACHING PRACTICE

Abstract

In the context of accelerated globalization and the Fourth Industrial Revolution, music education is becoming increasingly reliant on digital technologies. This paper presents the concept of the Internet of Musical Things (IoMusT) and the application of smart musical instruments in school teaching through a review of relevant literature. Key technological elements including pressure and motion sensors, wireless connectivity (Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth), cloud and edge computing architectures, and AI‑driven “microlearning” algorithms are described, showing how they collectively enable personalized practice, immediate feedback, and synchronized virtual ensemble performance. A dedicated section explores inclusive IoMusT applications, such as haptic interfaces and robotic gloves that support students with motor or sensory impairments, as well as the integration of brain activity analysis (fNIRS) for monitoring cognitive load. Through data driven analytics and GDPR compliant anonymization protocols, the paper demonstrates reductions in practice time, significant enhancements in social and metacognitive skills, and increased student motivation and autonomy. Identified challenges such as high costs, the need for teacher training, and ethical privacy concerns are addressed through proposed solutions: “instrument-as-a-service” financing models, modular micro‑credential programs for AI-supported teaching, and privacy-by-design practices. Finally, the study offers practical recommendations for the interoperable, ethically grounded, and pedagogically empowering integration of IoMusT technologies into music curricula across all educational levels.