Classes are made up of six to twelve children, each accompanied by a parent or primary caregiver (grandparent, nanny, etc.). Each session consists of once-weekly classes, 45 minutes each, for ten weeks (7 weeks in summer).

A Music Together class is not a "music lesson", nor is it performance-based, or a model for musical perfection.

It IS a model for DOING music with your child! It is a playful, participatory, exploratory experience. According to early childhood development research, such an environment is what nurtures musical growth and allows children to develop their musical intelligence and a foundation for future music achievement.

The Music Together teacher leads the class in songs, movement activities, and rhythm chants featured in the song collection being used in the current session. The music is presented through a variety of activities which include:

* fun, playful, interactive ways to focus on the tonal and rhythmic elements of the music

* small and large movement

* free, expressive dance

* instrument play on a variety of percussion instruments

* use of fun props in a musical, rhythmic way (scarves, balls, parachute)

* opportunities for improvisation by children as well as parents

Parent education tidbits during class will increase your understanding of the relevance of class activities to early childhood music development. Individual assessment of your child's musical stage can be offered by the teacher.

The atmosphere invites and encourages participation by both children and adults, regardless of their musical skill or training. Music Together parents discover what a powerful role model they are to their children, just by having fun with the music themselves. In doing so, many adults find that their own musicality flourishes as well!