The learning capacity of very young children is simply astounding. In the first few years of life, learning is a child’s job and it is accomplished primarily through play. With the Music Together® approach, children have fun and become engaged in class activities using their own particular learning styles. Some children may quietly and wisely observe, absorbing the experience from the comfort of their mothers’ or fathers’ laps. Kinesthetic learners who need to move for optimal learning may explore the room (often while the rest of us are sitting down and that's just fine). Others may experiment freely with singing and imitating the teacher’s movements.
Your child will participate in his or her own unique way, free from any pressure to perform. Over time, you will witness your child moving through the different stages of tonal and rhythmic development, integrating music-making into everyday life and eventually achieving basic music competence—the ability to sing in tune and with accurate rhythm.
What should I expect of myself?
You are the most important model and teacher for your child. Your most effective role will be to relax, have fun, and participate fully in the class activities yourself, regardless of your own music ability. If you personally feel a bit "musically challenged," please don’t worry! The most important things you can model for your child are simply pleasure, interest, and the desire to make music.
What do parents think of the program?
“This class is a wonderful, non-stressful, fun time to bond with my son (14 months old). The time spent at Music Together sets the tone for a very positive day together.”
“The benefits of this class are numerous, but what I love most is the joy I get out of seeing my kids enjoy themselves. I am also very impressed with the professionalism of the class—the quality of the CDs and song books, the parent guidebook, and the research that has gone into the program.”
“The boys love it! They may not always participate in class, but let me tell you, they sing every day at home. They love coming and it’s wonderful to watch their development and watch them play instruments. Well worth the time and money. A great investment.”
“It thrills me to see my one-year-old twins reacting to the music and doing their own interpretation of the movements. I didn’t realize how much they would enjoy the class.”
“I love the freedom the children are given in class. I feel Avery can really experience the music in her own way without being restricted! It has been so good for us. Thank you, Clarice!”
“Josie loves music class. When she’s in a bad mood, we play the CD and she always gets happy. Also, she is two and the class is helping her a lot with speaking and sentences. She’s actually learning how to talk by singing the songs from class.”
“Gus loves playing the instruments. It’s very exciting for him to switch from song to instruments so many times. It keeps his 2 1/2 year old interest! And he loves the songs.”
“My son lives for this class. All day, every day he talks about it or sings the songs we sing in class. I would and have recommended it to everyone I know and meet.”
“My child loves this class. He has shown great improvement in self confidence and self expression because of it. And the class has extended his interest in music and instrument use outside of class, as well as in making ‘real world’ connections related to music.”
“The whole family loves Music Together! We’ve had fun having grandparents, aunts and uncles visit class. Thanks, Clarice.”
“When we've been listening to the Music Together CD in the car, my son (2) cries if I turn it off when we get home. He actually wants to sit in the car and continue to listen to the music even if it's all by himself! Thanks, Clarice, for bringing this wonderful program to our community.”
Call us! 651-439-4219. We would be happy to discuss the program in more detail. You can also visit the Music Together national web site at www.musictogether.com You’ll find there an in-depth description of how the program was developed and the research upon which it is based.
