Sound Beginnings is designed for children ages 0-4 and a caregiver. Classes focus on singing, movement, instrument play, ear training activities, solfège, and active listening. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers alike can benefit from early musical exposure, supporting their cognitive, social, and emotional development while fostering a lifelong love of music.
Sound Beginnings is a weekly 30 minute children's music and movement class. It consists of six non-sequential semesters with each one focusing on different themes, songs, and activities. Every semester provides tools for a solid music foundation and includes preschool skills and ear training activities as well as exposure to simple percussion instrument.
7 Foundational Elements
Sound Beginnings includes research-based elements that stimulate growth in the areas particularly crucial to the development of the young child. These seven elements make up the foundation of every Sound Beginnings class:
Literacy & Kindergarten Skills
In class, we read stories, practice the ABC's, and learn letter sounds. We also focus on rhyming, tracking left to right, and recognizing our names in print.
Fine Motor Skills
Nursery rhymes are used for finger plays in order to help children focus on their developing fine motor skills. We also use ASL when singing the ABCs.
Rhythm & Beat
We use our bodies and instruments to feel and perform a steady beat. Being able to keep a steady beat is crucial for developing math skills as well as strong rhythm skills.
Gross Motor Skills
Full body movement builds muscle strength, encourages hand/eye coordination, and improves balance. Gross motor skills also connect the two hemispheres of the brain, promoting improved cognition.
Vocal & Pitch Development
Students are encouraged to participate in vocal play. They learn the difference between high and low through the use of the minor third as well as practice matching pitch and singing in tune.
Classical Music Experience
Smart Moves Dances involve the whole body in an engaging classical music experience and promote active listening. Each semester, we study the timbre of different instruments and group them by family.
Bonding
This class is made for children and their grown-ups to enjoy together. Partner activities with intentional eye contact, trust elements, and physical touch help nurture these relationships.