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 ABCs? 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?
Classes for Babies, Walkers, and Walkers/Jumpers Combo are 30 minutes per week; Jumpers classes are 40 minutes. Cycle of Seasons (Preschool) classes are 45 minutes, and all classes for older children (Music Makers at Home, Music Makers around the World, and Keyboard) are 1 hour per week.  During the summer we offer a Music/Art Camp for children ages 3 1/2 up to 8 years for 2 and 1/4 hours to 2 and 1/2 hours.

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 also makes it easier for the students to grow in their musical competence and graduate 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. 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 Music Makers: At the Keyboard.

Does Musikgarten prepare students for piano lessons?
Yes!  Musikgarten classes develop students' aural senses more than other pre-piano methods. The Music Makers: At the Keyboard classes are taught in a group session, 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. Try it, and you won't have to ask this question ever again!

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. You may attend your class via Zoom, or any other class with openings for a make-up, either the same week you are gone, or another week of the semester.  Please email to schedule your make-up class.

Do you have a class that would allow me to bring several of my children of different ages to at the same time?
We have a Mixed Ages Family Class (Walkers/Jumpers Combo) which allows children up to age 3 and 1/2 to be in one class at the same time. The program is the same as the other family classes.  There is lots of movement to keep the toddlers busy: singing, dancing, and playing instruments.  You may also bring multiple children to a Walkers or Jumpers class.  As much as possible, we try to schedule classes for different age groups concurrently or consecutively, so all children in your famliy can attend an age-appropriate class close to the same time!

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. It is our view that the singing, dancing, and playing (in class and at home) is the best for your child's holistic development - language, movement, math skills, and physical coordination - all in a group setting that builds community. While other activities can be fun too, the primary building block of your child's developmental time should be spent with Musikgarten.