Alberta Music Programs of

Study (K-12)
Created by: Meagan Thorlakson, October 2015

A. Philosophy
Music Education should begin at an early age and should continue to encourage creative
expression through performance, listening, and composition. As students become sensitive to
the expressive elements of music, they develop insight into human feelings. Music Education
should contribute to the total development of the individual. Skills will develop in the areas of
performer, listener, evaluator, consumer, historian, and composer. Furthermore, music as an
aesthetic form is an expression of human history that transcends language barriers and reflects
the lifestyles, thoughts, and aspirations of our cultural heritage.

B. Goals, Topics, Concepts

Elementary
Enjoyment of music
Awareness and appreciation of a variety of music, including music of the many cultures
represented in Canada.
Insights into music through meaningful musical activities
Self expression and creativity
Musical skills and knowledge

Middle School/High School

this combines the Programs of Study for 7-9 Music, and 10-12 General, Choral, and
Instrumental Music
To develop skills in listening, performing, and using notational systems
To encourage students to strive for musical excellence, individually, and as members of
groups
To enable students to understand, evaluate, and appreciate a variety of music
To provide experiences that will foster the development of self-expression, creativity, and
communication through music.
To make students aware of the history of music and the implications of music on our society.

C. Specific Learner Outcomes / Concepts, Skills,

Attitudes
In each Programs of Study for Music, there is a different name for this section. It was
summarized quite a few times however, as concepts, skills, and attitudes. This is the
terminology that will be used.

Elementary Concepts, Skills, and Attitudes

Concepts/Knowledge

Rhythm
Melody
Harmony
Form
Expression

Skills

Singing
Playing instruments
Listening
Moving
Reading (and writing)
Creating

Attitudes
If there is no enjoyment in
the music program, all the
other values will be lost.
Positive attitudes toward
music are fostered by
success in areas of skills
and concepts.

Middle School / High School Concepts, Skills, Attitudes

this combines the Programs of Study for 7-9 Music, and 10-12 General*, Choral, and
Instrumental Music
Concepts/Knowledge

Skills

Concepts are essentially

taught through student
participation in the skill
areas of singing, playing,
listening, reading (and
writing), and creating.

Vocal - singing
Aural - listening
Theoretical/practical
Composition
Interpretation/synthesis
Appreciation & history

*Skills vary slightly in the

General Music Programs of
Study
Performing / listening
creating
researching
valuing

Attitudes
If there is no enjoyment in
the music program, all the
other values will be lost.
Positive attitudes are
fostered by success in skill
areas
Value the necessity of
learning throughout life
Develop a sense of purpose
in life and joy in living
Develop positive, realistic
self-images through an
understanding and
acceptance of themselves
with their strengths and their
limitations
Appreciate creativity as
exhibited in all areas of
human endeavour