Middle School Music SOL Glossary

Students apply creative thinking to music when they use their skills and knowledge flexibly to create work that has individual voice and vision. A creative process is not a specific formula for developing creative work. Instead, it is following a course of action to guide the development of original work. A creative process includes inquiry and questioning, researching, interpreting, generating, testing, and discussing ideas and solutions, refining work as part of a creative community, and reflecting on the process, product, and performance of making music. (Board of Education Commonwealth of Virginia, 2020)

Critical thinking, communication, and collaboration are inherent attributes in the creation, rehearsal, refinement, and performance of music. Students understand that critique is an integral part of an artistic learning environment. Students analyze, classify, and evaluate music, compare and contrast aspects of the art form, and develop a music vocabulary that allows them to recognize, describe, and justify personal responses, beliefs, and opinions regarding music. They recognize the value in evaluating diverse opinions and responses to music. They are responsive to the talents, interests, and cultural perspectives of others. Communication and collaboration, including both verbal and nonverbal cues, active listening, problem- solving, and performance agreement, are integral to the creation, rehearsal, refinement, and performance of music. (Board of Education Commonwealth of Virginia, 2020)

Students hear and understand musical works from many time periods and places and respond to a variety of music and musical styles from diverse composers and performers. Students identify the values, roles, and reasons for the creation and performance of music from the perspective of many time periods, people, and places. Students develop a lifelong engagement with music as a performer, community member, supporter, and advocate. They understand and respect the ethical and legal considerations for engaging with music as a responsible citizen. Board of Education Commonwealth of Virginia, 2020)

Innovation thrives by cultivating authentic connections between fields of knowledge. Students in music courses focus on music’s role in the rapidly changing world and explore the newest tools, instruments, media, and processes in music through demonstrations, experiences, and experimentation that merge traditional forms of musical expression with emerging technologies and innovative techniques. Students are future-ready for evolving opportunities and advancements in music. They explore opportunities to connect fine arts experiences, content, and skills to college preparation, college and career opportunities, and to an expanding range of career prospects in the field of music. (Board of Education Commonwealth of Virginia, 2020)

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Students develop and apply the technical skills necessary to express their musical ideas and engage deeply with music. Standards in this strand describe the essential skills necessary at each level to promote high quality instruction for every music student in the Commonwealth. Through sequential study and practice, students develop the physical, conceptual, intellectual, intuitive, and artistic skills necessary for success in music. Education Commonwealth