Learning from Japanese vocaloid Hatsune Miku

This chapter explores the educational importance of Hatsune Miku, a Japanese Vocaloid, or singing vocal android, whose name translates as “first sound from the future.” Drawing on a theoretical framework from sound studies, we characterize Vocaloids such as Miku as a medium for musical development and experience in which people, practices, institutions, and technologies create recurrent patterns of social interaction from which the recognizable medium of “Miku” emerges. A vignette from one of the author’s experiences creating with Miku leads to an exploration of educational issues within Miku. Also examined are recent efforts by Yamaha to introduce Vocaloid to schools. The discussion explores continuing challenges and issues for the profession going forward, including speculation on potential challenges and outstanding issues. Copyright © 2020 Oxford University Press.