The textbook combines all the main types and forms of practical work in the disciplines of the musical and theoretical cycle, as well as the main topics on musical literacy and music theory, forms of control papers (exam papers), which, as a rule, are presented in such publications separately, without following an integrated approach. The forms of planning and methods of implementation of independent work of students are elaborated and presented in detail. The proposed principle of systematic learning helps in the practical development of disciplines, contributes to the acquisition of the necessary professional knowledge, skills and abilities. It is intended for use in the classroom work of students of performing and theoretical departments of music colleges, as well as advanced students of the senior classes of SSMSH, DMSh and DSHI. It can be used for independent work of students of various specialties of secondary vocational education institutions and areas of higher education: 53.02.03 "Instrumental performance (by types of instruments)", 53.03.03 "Vocal art", 53.03.04 "The Art of folk singing", as well as for preparing applicants for entrance exams.