Why should my child study music at a young age?

Recent studies suggest that playing and listening to music at a young age improves learning, memory, reasoning ability, and general creativity. Research also supports the theory that young children who are exposed to music develop enhanced cognitive skills. Music teachers are aware that influences of music go far beyond the intellectual and physical development of the child. Studying music contributes to the growth of a well-balanced child in sensitivity, expressiveness, and the spirit essential for functioning in a complicated world.

What types of things can I expect to happen in the lesson?

Each lesson will include a variety of activities chosen from keyboard performance, singing, music appreciation, coloring, movement, listening, rhythm, and music writing or creative skills. The activities that occur in the lesson are structured to take into consideration the young child's small hands and limited attention span.

What will my child learn in the course?

Little Musicians combines general musicianship activities with those that develop performance skills at the piano or pre-piano skills for ages 3 and below. Skills taught in the course focus on keyboard performance, listening, pitch matching, keyboard technique, singing, rhythm, movement, and music appreciation. Children will play pieces at the piano throughout each level.

What is my role as a parent in music study?

Parents play a very important role in music lessons for young children. Lessons are a total partnership between the child and the parents. Some teachers encourage parents to attend lessons. Even if parents do not attend lessons, they must keep in close contact with the teacher and share in the learning process at home. Parents must supervise practice and read directions to the student. In addition to practice sessions at the piano, parents should discuss the pictures in the books with the child, read the story in the Music Lesson Book to him/her, and listen to the compact discs together as a family.

Should my child study privately or in a group?

Historically, pre-school music instruction has been conducted in groups optionally with parents attending and assisting students in the lessons. This approach is very effective as young students enjoy the interaction with peers. Parents enjoy the opportunity to share these experiences with their children. When children study privately, it is very important that lessons include a variety of activities that get the student away from the keyboard for listening, singing, and movement activities.

How often and how long should my child practice?

After each lesson, your child will get an assignment for the week. Children should practice daily for 10-15 minutes at a specific time with no interference from other family members, the television, nor the computer. It is wise to practice as early in the day as possible, keep a record of practice time, and establish a reward system for effective practice. Two brief practice times are preferable to one longer session. The parent should sit near the child during the practice time so that the child doesn't feel isolated.