Chapter 4
Guidance
for Visual and
Performing Arts
Programs
MusicMusic
S
tandards-based instruction reinforces the importance of a rigorous, compre-
hensive arts education program. Understanding that performance classes
are not intended to be appreciation courses, teachers should provide a variety of
opportunities for students to meet standards while preparing students to per-
form quality works of music. The following unit of study is an example of how
teachers can maintain the integrity of performance classes by
focusing on development of skills in music while pro-
viding a comprehensive approach
to music education. It also
recognizes that many high
school performance classes
have both beginning and
advanced students in one
class and provides for dif-
ferentiated opportunities
based on experience.literature of music, piano and electronic music, instrumental music, and the
recording arts.
High school music courses should be approved by the University of Cali-
fornia and the California State University to meet the new visual and perform-
ing arts requirements for freshman admission to those institutions. (Standards-
based courses approved for entrance and courses that would not be accepted as
college preparatory music courses are listed in Appendix B.) According to the
five component strands of the music content standards, creative thinking
should be promoted through instruction in a sequence of appropriate music
courses. In addition, students should have frequent opportunities to work with
professional musicians and attend professional performances at school and in
the community. Community college, university, or community programs in
music often may be open to students with particular interests or talents. As
students recognize connections between music and other curriculum areas, they
can expand and enrich the scope of their educational experience.
Music teachers need to communicate with their colleagues throughout
their school district and with university music departments and professional
music groups to enhance their programs and support continuity of instruction.Sample Standards-Based Unit of Study
Grades Nine Through Twelve