This course is designed for students who want to learn music on their own terms. If your school does not offer the style, instrument, or approach you are interested in, this course allows you to earn an Ontario high school music credit by documenting real musical practice.

Students choose the instrument, genre, and learning resources that match their goals. This might include working through a method book, following online courses or tutorials, composing or producing music in a DAW, writing lyrics, or preparing repertoire for performance. All musical styles and approaches are welcome.

Students earn credit by recording their practice, submitting short videos, and reflecting on their progress. The focus is on consistent effort, skill development, and thoughtful goal setting rather than one-time performances.

How the Course Works

The course is structured around five practice units of approximately 20 hours each. At the beginning of each unit, students select a piece, technique, or musical goal they want to focus on. This choice guides the work for that unit.

For each practice unit, students:

• Select music or techniques they want to develop
• Identify learning resources such as books, videos, lessons, or courses
• Create a practice plan aligned with their goals
• Log practice time and activities
• Submit short videos demonstrating progress
• Reflect on challenges, breakthroughs, and next steps

Practice plans are refined over time as students learn more about how they practice best and what helps them improve.

1. fundamental techniques taught through the method book you choose
2. techniques that help you define your personal musical style
3. improvisation and practice playing to backing tracks you find or create

What Students Learn

Across the course, students develop:

• Instrumental or production skills through regular, documented practice
• An understanding of effective practice strategies
• The ability to set realistic musical goals and revise them over time
• Confidence working independently as a musician

There are no high pressure performance tests or mandatory public performances. Students are assessed on their growth, planning, and reflection. If students choose to perform publicly, such as busking or playing in a band, that time can also count toward course hours.

Flexibility and Support

This course can be completed independently or used alongside private lessons with a teacher or coach. Students can document practice they are already doing and turn it into a credit.

Outcomes

By the end of the course, students will have:

• Completed approximately 100 hours of documented musical practice
• Built and revised multiple practice plans
• Developed habits that support long-term musical growth
• Earned an Ontario high school Music credit through meaningful, self-directed learning

This course is ideal for students who want flexibility, creative control, and a music credit that reflects how musicians actually learn.