FAQ

Why should I pursue early childhood music education for my child?
Music awakens and stimulates neural pathways in the brain that are associated with higher forms of intelligence, such as abstract thinking, empathy, mathematics and science. Music's melodic and rhythmic patterns provide exercise for the brain and help develop memory. Remember singing the ABC song to learn your ABC's? Studying music helps children establish good listening habits, which are essential for achievement in school. Overall, music activities are perfect for child development. Music immerses the child in language, evokes movement, stimulates the brain and fosters physical coordination - all in a group setting that builds community - a holistic experience.
How long do the classes last each week?
Babies and Toddlers meet weekly for 30 minutes. Preschoolers meet weekly for 45 minutes. Music Makers meet weekly for one hour. Piano group classes meet weekly for 50-60 minutes. 
What does is mean when you say Musikgarten has a 9 year developmental plan for my child?
Only Musikgarten has a program that addresses the unique developmental needs of children at each age. Each of the classes are interrelated, as they were written for children to grow-up with Musikgarten. This sequential planning makes it easy for students to grow in their musical competence and graduate with ease to instrument playing.
Should Parents attend and participate in the classes?
Parents are an integral part of class in the younger years. As students get older they participate by themselves, but parents take part in the classes towards the end of each lesson. For all classes, parents are asked to include active music making in their child’s life. Sing along with the CD/download.  Play echo games, making up patterns, as we do in class. Put the picture cards or notation games on your refrigerator and play identification games with them as you get ready for dinner. More structured practice is required when the children get to piano classes.
Does Musikgarten prepare students for piano and other instrument lessons?
Yes, in most cases. Musikgarten classes develop your child's aural senses and music skills through developmentally appropriate and stimulating classroom activities and exercises. Our Pre-Instrument Music Makers classes are designed to develop music skills in children that will lead to music literacy and a successful start to learning to play any instrument. Our beginning piano classes are taught in a group format so that children learn from each other and grow in their comfort of playing with and in front of one another.
Why do the students get Home Materials? Are we supposed to practice at home?
Children and parents can have so much fun at home and in the car with Musikgarten songs and dances. In class you learn the songs, but at home is where you really have fun with the songs and dances. It's a great family bonding time.
There are home assignments for piano students of all ages. Piano students need an acoustic or digital piano for home playing and practice time. 
What if I can't make it one week due to a vacation or other conflict?
Please let us know as soon as you know. That way we can work on a plan to accommodate your needs while keeping your child's progress with music on track. Our early childhood classes are typically full. If you are unable to attend another class when a space is available during the session, please plan to join us for the special make-up class or family music time when offered during the session. 
Do you have a class that would allow me to bring several of my children of different ages to at the same time?
You are welcome to attend All Together Now as a family. Just let us know when you register that you are enrolling more than one child and that all would like to attend together. Siblings under nine months old attend for free. Sibling discounts are also available.  
As my child gets older there seem to be more and more activities for him/her to do? Why should I continue with music and movement training?
After being in the program for a while, you can see the benefits your child is getting from class. Singing, dancing and playing (in class and at home) are wonderful for your child's holistic development: language, movement, math skills, and physical coordination. Regular attendance fosters friendship and builds community.  While other activities can be fun too, our Musikgarten classes are sure to become one of the primary building blocks of your child's developmental time.