Curriculum Review and Modernisation of Music Programmes in Nigerian Polytechnics: A Focus on Auchi Polytechnic

This study examines the current state of music programme curricula in Nigerian polytechnics, with a specific case focus on Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State, South South Nigeria. Polytechnics occupy a critical position in Nigeria's tertiary education sector, offering vocational and professional training that should closely align with industry demands. However, music curricula in many polytechnics have not been comprehensively reviewed for over a decade, resulting in misalignment between graduate skills and contemporary music industry requirements in areas such as music technology, digital production, music business, and live performance management. This research employs a curriculum evaluation design, comparing Auchi Polytechnic's music curriculum against benchmarks established by the National Board for Technical Education and recent professional music education frameworks. Data are collected through document analysis, structured interviews with 12 music lecturers and 5 industry practitioners, and focus group discussions with final-year students. The study identifies gaps, redundancies, and missing competency areas in the current curriculum. Findings will provide a detailed curriculum reform blueprint addressing contemporary music industry demands while retaining core music theory and performance training. Recommendations target the National Board for Technical Education and polytechnic music departments seeking curriculum modernisation. Keywords: Music curriculum, polytechnic education, curriculum review, Auchi Polytechnic, music industry.