This thesis concerns a self-made educational board game named Solfa-Tsombi, designed for teaching and learning the basics of music theory, and which main pedagogical focus is on solfege. The learning content of the game is based on levels 1/3, 2/3 and 3/3 of basic music theory curriculum at the conservatoires, and therefore it does not only apply to independent studies of music theory but also for educational use in a school environment. At the background of the thesis there is an attempt to develop the learning culture of music theory to a more learner-oriented and motivating direction. This objective is striven towards by practical means through Solfa-Tsombi and also through theoretical approach by giving the reader a general overview on the principles of game-based learning, by providing highly motivational tools for teacher’s lesson planning.

The theoretical basis of the thesis was founded mainly on publications in the field of game studies as well as in general and music pedagogics. Some important sources also derive from the fields of psychology and cultural studies. At the core of the thesis’ theoretical framework are the abstractions of playful learning and flow theory also utilized in the analysis of the thesis’ empirical material. In the empirical study section Solfa-Tsombi’s practical functionality is evaluated in a real-life context of music theory lessons arranged in the conservatoires of Oulu and Oulunsalo. The test playing sessions in Oulu and Oulunsalo were the main sources of the empirical material which was also collected from the interviews of music students at Oulu University of Applied Sciences.

The results of the test playing sessions provided promising evidence of Solfa-Tsombi as a motivational and diverse tool for learning. The game aids in the creation of an invigorating and learner-activating culture of music theory study which utilizes the abstractions of playful learning and creates conditions for the emerging of flow experience known for its improving qualities to learning. The results also revealed some needs of improvement to be met for the future educational use of the game and for the possibility of commercializing it.