Develop a vocabulary sheet of supportive language and use this terminology in all written and verbal communications, including correspondence with the media. It will help to position your program in a positive light. Here is a vocabulary sheet sample:
Music Education Vocabulary for a New Millennium
| Traditional | Progressive |
|---|---|
| Lessons | Small group/ensemble learning |
| Activities | Coursework |
| Program | Classroom(s)/Curriculum |
| Play music | Study music |
| Co- OR extra-curricular | Academic/curricular |
| Core | Well Rounded |
| Contest or concert | Assessment |
| Knows how to play instrument | Technique |
| Pieces or songs | Curriculum |
| Fun songs/Popular music | National and/or State Standards |
| Coach/Conductor/Director | Teacher/Educator |
| Competitive | Collaborative |
| Teacher-centered | Student-centered |
| Ratings or grades | Performance outcomes |
| Performing ensemble as team | Performing ensemble as class |
| Working for money/grades/ratings/extrinsic motivation | Intrinsic motivation |
| Only presenting pieces that audience likes | Enjoyment through knowledge |
| Prodigy or gifted and talented | Growth mindset and determination |
| Knows how to play instrument/sing | Demonstrates musical understanding |
| Makes them feel good | Involves cognitive, psychomotor and affective learning |
| Grades and pleasing teacher/extra-musical goals | Working toward personal intrinsic long-term musical goals |
| Rote learning/literacy emphasis only | Creative work/student composers included |
| “My” ensemble/kids/classroom | “The” ensemble/kids/classroom |
