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Music Together is an internationally recognized early childhood music program for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners, and the adults who love them. First offered to the public in 1987, it pioneered the conceptof a research-based, developmentally appropriate early childhood music curriculum that strongly emphasizes and facilitates adult involvement. Music Together classes are based on the recognition that all children are musical.
Winter - Spring - Fall
Frequently Asked Questions.....
He who asks is a fool for five minutes, but he who does not ask remains a fool forever.
How many classes are in a semester?
- Classes are 45 minutes over 10 weeks.
How old are the children in classes?
- This program is designed for children from birth to five years old.
How many children are in each class?
- Usually there are 6 to 12 children per class.
Why do classes have mixed ages?
- Researchers have found that a mixed-age group tends to foster a more natural, family style learning environment. Older children learn from being in a
leadership role, younger children benefit from the example of an older child.
- Siblings can attend class together, making it easier for parents to enjoy a true family experience.
- We now know that children of the same age are not necessarily at the same point in their musical development so the mixed-age model is a natural
opportunity for them to learn at their own pace.
- Parent-child interactions are our primary focus plus children also benefit from opportunities for social interaction with other children.
What do classes look like? Can I try one out first?
- Periodically free demo classes are offered or you may arrange a time to visit a regularly scheduled class. Note: Drop-ins are not permitted, please schedule
with Roxy. To be notified of Demo classes, please join the Mailing List.
Each lesson plan has a carefully planned sequence of songs and chants that include
dance, play, instrument jams, singing and exploring tonal and rhythm patterns. We have some ritual patterns, like the hello, lullaby and goodbye to help the
children know what to expect from week to week.- Each semester we also have different song collections to explore. Some songs repeat from week to week to experience the song in different ways and build on
concepts from the week before.
What is the music like?
- Finally some children's music you will love to listen to! Music Together® created research-based materials of the highest quality to carry the music from class to your home - a recording, a songbook, and educational information for parents.
- The music is pitched in just the right range for children?s voices and includes songs, rhythmic chants, tonal and rhythm patterns, and instrumental play-alongs, all in a rich variety of sounds and rhythms.
- There are many original songs and unique, original arrangements of folk songs, graced by the playing and singing of outstanding performers on a variety of instruments.
- They are also classroom and family-tested. Since 1987, the feedback of hundreds of teachers and thousands of families has been incorporated into these constantly evolving materials.
Can I bring other visitors?
- Yes. Grandparents, nannies and other special grown-ups in your child's life are always welcome. Siblings can attend on school holidays, but please let
your teacher know in advance.
- Non-registered friends with children may arrange to visit a class as a free demo by emailing Roxy at
info@roxyfx.com . Note: Drop-ins are not permitted.
What kinds of instruments do you use?
- We use a variety of percussion instruments (drums, shakers, bells, sticks etc.) that are age appropriate for children and adults.
HELP! My child can't sit still for 45 minutes?!
- No problem! We don't expect children to sit still. Instead, children are welcome to sit and observe, move around, copy the adults or invent their own way
to play--whatever style works best for them is accepted and welcome. Often we find that a child may not look like they are participating or are doing something
different then the group. Then they go home and "practise" what they learned in class by re-enacting it!
- Children at this critical stage of development are learning ALL THE TIME, whether it looks like it or not!
- The most important thing that parents and caregivers can do is be ready to fully participate and model how much fun you are having making music, which will
inspire them to adopt your positive attitude.
HELP! I'm not musical, can I still come with my child?
- You are your child's most important role model, no matter what kind of singing voice or dancing feet you have (or think you have!!). It is less important
how well you sing than it is to model making the choice to sing. By your example, children will learn that music is a natural, enjoyable and important part
of their lives. You, the primary caregiver, are the only one who can give your child the gift of a positive attitude to make music. No CD can impart
that! What your child loves and needs most is to hear your voice. Throughout the classes you will also get more information
on how to best support your child.
Why do my child and I need music?
- It is at this critical time in early childhood that all the ground-work for future music learning can be
laid down. The basics of rhythm and tonality can be being
formed in the child's brain. This endows a child with the skill to be a life-time music-maker. - We believe that every child should be able to sing on pitch and keep a beat, (defined as Basic Music Competence) and feel confident enjoying the music of the culture, regardless of whether they go on to play an instrument. Classes provide an opportunity for this to develop naturally, in a developmentally appropriate and rich setting.
- This setting is free from performance expectations and structured learning outcomes. By focusing on the process, NOT the performance of these young children, we provide them with a solid foundation for future musical choices.
Where can I go for more information on Music Together?
-
Please explore this site thoroughly, call (250) 515-2966, and/or visit the Music Together mainsite
homepage.
