The Master Class is designed for children 3-5 years with previous Music Together® experience! It is intentionally facilitated to mirror some ways children learn in preschool classrooms. The structure of a preschool classroom and typical 'rules' that are in place in a school setting are applied to a traditional Music Together® class (e.g., no running, no screaming, etc.) Rules are all established positively and are explained (usually by the children themselves) so that everyone understands WHY the rules are in place, and students follow these agreements to the best of their ability.
We create opportunities in class for children to sing by themselves, take 'solo' turns playing with instruments, offer activity suggestions, and make up their own vocables or verses.
Children are encouraged to sing their own names during the Hello and Goodbye songs and to repeat tonal/rhythm patterns by themselves if they choose.
While much of the class is what you'd expect from a mixed-age group, we also include activities not always common in a mixed-age setting that are age-appropriate for 3—5-year-olds.
Younger siblings are welcome to attend this class with their older siblings. Most older children are aware that 'little' kids can't follow some of the rules yet, although we are always surprised at how some of these younger siblings rise to the level of the rest of the class.
FAQ
How is a 3s/4s class different from a mixed-age class? This class is a mixed-ages class but in this specific class, the teacher may extend musical activities to include more exploration in rhythm improvisation, independent singing, dance improvisation, and dramatic play activities. The Music Together® approach has been integrated with great success into the preschool setting and we utilize our experience in that realm to inform our work in the parent/child 3s/4s classroom.
Do I attend the "Master Class Mixed-Ages class with my child? Yes. Remember that you are still your child's most important role model, especially during this crucial stage of primary music development. Your participation and enjoyment are essential to their musical growth. The most important things you can model for your child are simply pleasure, interest, and the desire to participate in music activities!
Can my younger child attend this class as well? Yes, younger siblings are welcome to attend the Master Class with their older brothers and sisters.