Perceiving, imagining, comprehending, and evaluating in the context of learning the Music TEKS develop strong skills of analysis, interpretation, and elaboration. For example, the ability to connect playing an instrument to ideas, stories, or emotions prompts students to examine the relationship between music and the real and imagined worlds that inspire creative expression. Musical achievement requires many different kinds of thinking. Students learn to attend to details, as well as to "the big picture", and to unify diverse elements into cohesive works. They become adept at applying tools of critical thinking and to confidently approach and solve problems in numerous ways. The following list of teaching strategies is included to assist in the process of building students' skills of critical thinking and problem solving in all music areas.

• Emphasize that problem solving in music is a process of developing individual solutions to complex problems. With this in mind, teach students to make choices within the structure of the Music TEKS.
• As students learn the basics of music, stretch their thinking by initiating serious discussions about what makes one music medium distinct from another. What are its strengths? Ask "why," "how," and "what if" questions when discussing characteristics of a medium or of specific works.
• Discuss with students the purposes of different types of questions (e.g., application, synthesis, or opinion questions). Talk about the power of each type of question to get students to think about the processes of critical and creative thinking and problem solving in music.
• Guide students in their acquisition of skills practiced in music class by asking individuals or small groups of students to define problems and suggest solutions. Use student-generated problems/questions in class activities.
• Use journaling to help students generate or clarify their thoughts before class discussions and activities.
• Compare opposing critiques of a musical composition and ask probing questions about the sources of any difference of opinion.
• Encourage abstract, non-linear thinking and approaches to problem solving to enable students to make connections among things or concepts seemingly unrelated.
• Emphasize the value of self-reflection in the process of musical growth. Provide numerous opportunities for students to consider the impact of their creative choices. Help them learn to examine and constructively evaluate student and professional work in music.