Early Childhood

All children are little artists. From a very young age, they love to sing, dance, draw, and play-act. As parents, our first job is simply to encourage and support their natural artistic inclinations. At the Music Conservatory, you can give your child the best possible start in music, and have lots of fun exploring music as a family.

We offer classes that introduce your child to the basics, using musical games and creative expression to teach concepts such as melody, rhythm, phrasing, dynamics and more. Our Suzuki Program provides a proven, child-centered approach to learning the violin, viola, cello, and piano. Shinichi Suzuki believed that all children are born with innate musical ability, and we agree!

Our staff will meet with you and your child to determine his/her readiness for a specific program or private lessons.

Inquire now to schedule a meeting.

Before enrolling, you’ll bring your child for a visit to the Conservatory and meet with one of our experts who will customize a program based on your child’s skill-set. Our staff and teachers have dedicated professionals with amazing credentials and a passion for working with children. The Conservatory is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, so you can be assured of the highest quality for your child.

Scholarships based on financial need are available for students of all ages to enroll at the Conservatory. Students and parents are encouraged to inquire and apply today! Visit our Scholarship Page for more information.

 

HERE’S WHAT WE OFFER:

Young Children's Classes

First Notes/Primeras Notas (4 months – 4 years)

Jump start your child’s early music education with songs from around the world, sound exploration, rhythm and movement, and an introduction to the Spanish language. Children attend classes with a parent or caregiver. Offered for Bravo Babies (3-18 months), Toddler Tunes (1 1/2-2 1/2 years), and Preschool Prodigies (3-4 years). Take a look at the First Notes/Primeras Notas Curriculum for more information.

Music Skills ( age 3 – grade 3)

Based on the renowned Dalcroze method, this class teaches the fundamentals of rhythm, melody and harmony through ear training, creative movement, songs and improvisation. The Saturday morning classes include an emphasis on Orff percussion instruments. Children attend classes on their own, without a parent or caregiver. Pre-K Music Skills offers a perfect entry point for your child’s musical education, helping prepare him/her to learn an instrument. Music Skills classes start in October and continue through May. Enrollment is ongoing through February.

Music Skills classes provide a foundation of our music theory curriculum which starts in grade 4. Students benefit from taking Music Skills and theory in addition to their instrumental lessons. Pre-K Music Skills is perfect for ‘Budding Bach-Stars’ to begin their musical education. Subsequent classes reinforce children’s instrumental lessons.

Our Music Skills teachers are certified Dalcroze instructors. To learn more about Dalcroze go to www.dalcrozeusa.org

Instrumental Section

Suzuki Program (4 years & up) – Violin, Viola, Cello, and Piano

The Suzuki philosophy is based on the concept that all children can succeed in music when provided with the right environment, great teaching, and parental support. Children learn through listening, imitation, and repetition; early music reading is an important part of the Conservatory’s approach. Parents attend lessons and classes with their children and practice with them at home every day. Recitals are scheduled throughout the year.

Suzuki group classes reinforce and expand upon what is learned in the private lessons and teach ensemble and musicianship skills, as well as providing a social group with peers. Optional Music Skills and Music Theory classes help children learn the fundamentals of music and reinforce note reading. For more information on our Suzuki program click here.

For more information on the Suzuki method, visit the Suzuki Association of America website www.suzukiassociation.org

Piano Program (PreK – 1)

Piano is a wonderful first instrument for children, and instruction can begin as early as age 4 1/2. While some children are ready to jump right into private lessons, many start with a group class.

GROUP PIANO Includes two classes per week: Group Piano, Music Skills. Using a blend of different teaching methods and materials, children learn basic piano skills in a nurturing environment with their peers. A parent or caregiver attends weekly classes with their child and guides at-home practice.

PRIVATE PIANO LESSONS Includes two classes per week: Private Lesson, Music Skills. For young children ready to begin one-on-one instruction. We will place your child with an experienced early childhood piano instructor.

NEW! Guitar Program (age 4 – grade 1)

Guitar can be an ideal first instrument for children, starting as early as age 4. After 1-2 years of group class, most students are ready for private lessons. Our guitar classes and instructors use a variety of materials and musical styles. A parent or caregiver monitors and guides home practice.

Strong basic playing skills provide a foundation for students to learn classical, jazz, or rock when they reach more advanced levels, and to participate in a rock band, jazz combo or guitar ensemble. Working with their peers in the early stages helps foster the collaborative spirit necessary to make music with others.

GROUP GUITAR Includes two classes per week: Group Guitar, Music Skills. For young beginners age 4 to grade 1 who have never previously learned guitar.

PRIVATE GUITAR LESSONS Includes two classes per week: Private Lesson, Music Skills. For young children who have completed at least one year of group guitar and are ready for one-on-one instruction.

Performing Ensembles

Youth Chorus (grade 1 – 6)

Offers a nurturing, enjoyable ensemble experience open to all instrumental and vocal students. Students explore their vocal capabilities through unison and simple two-part vocal music ranging from folk songs to popular tunes. The chorus performs at the Conservatory and in various community locations.

Buckets and Beats (grade 1 – 6)

Have fun with sticks, buckets, and household items in this inventive class. Children learn the basics of percussion and how to play the various parts of drum beats. Open to all students, including those with no prior musical experience.