Use of Virtual Reality for the Preservation and Engagement of Traditional Music: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) has opened up multimodal, immersive experiences for involvement in an interactive, participatory environment for teaching and learning. This study aims to assess the potential impact of VR interventions on key areas such as music preservation, accessibility, education, and audience engagement. Furthermore, this study explores the application of Virtual Reality (VR) technology as a tool for preserving and promoting Sri Lanka's rich traditional music heritage. The study developed applications for experiencing traditional music, and feedback was collected to evaluate this experience. It illustrates that VR not only enhances user engagement but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of traditional music by creating an immersive environment where users can interact with the music and cultural context in a novel way. This approach provides new avenues for preserving traditional music while making it more accessible to broader audiences, particularly younger generations. The findings of this research offer insights into how innovative technologies can contribute to safeguarding intangible cultural heritage in contemporary settings, providing new ways to sustain the cultural vibrancy of traditional music.