During the first few years in a child's life incredible development takes place. Music study benefits from some of these stages and actually helps in others. Early in a child's life the language acquisition process begins. During this time their little ears are like sponges taking in all that they can. Since music also requires and benefits from a good ear, this is the perfect time to begin lessons. In addition, neural pathways are being created as a part of normal brain development. Music study has been shown to have a dramatic positive effect on the development of these pathways. Most of this is taking place before children are able to read. There is a relatively short window of opportunity that, once closed, is gone forever.
Young children are not programmed to sit for extended periods of time in a private lesson. They would much rather play with their friends. The activities in our classes simulate play but actually teach the way young kids learn. Not only that, but we can do things in a group setting that just can't be done in a private lesson. These activities, such as playing in ensembles, have tremendous educational impact and are lots of fun. Music students generally spend most of their lives taking private lessons. Those who aren't able to start in a group program miss valuable training and experience that only this setting can provide.
One of the great benefits of a group setting is that children learn so much from their environment. For example, the student who has a tendency to slow down or even stop when reaching a tough spot in a piece of music learns while playing in ensembles that the music goes on. This very important discovery takes place, unnoticed by peers, and without correction from a teacher. This is just one example of how natural and long-lasting learning through self-discovery takes place in a totally friendly and safe environment. It's no wonder young children just thrive. Of course our teachers are very perceptive and know when intervention is needed. Also, parents participate along with children in class and can help when needed.
If you already have some musical experience, that's great. If you don't, that's okay too. Remember that you will be learning right along with your child (What a bonus! Two for the price of one). The perfect pace for your child will be downright leisurely for you. Of course if you ever have a question we'll be happy to answer it for you.
Toddlers definitely are too young for traditional private music lessons. However, our courses are nothing like traditional private piano lessons. In fact, the younger kids aren't even aware that they are learning. As far as they are concerned they are just coming to play, but learning they are. Each of the many activities just take a minute or so thereby working with young attention spans and eliminating boredom. The activities come together in a seamless lesson. Layering from week to week ensures that learned skills are reinforced and solidified.
