Little Mozarts 4 FUN

LittleMozarts4FUN was written to provide appropriate piano instruction for four to six-year olds while simultaneously developing listening skills. The series was designed to provide a balance between the discipline necessary for playing the instrument and the enjoyment one gets from the process of music-making while catering to their energy level. The course centers around the story of Beethoven Bear and Mozart Mouse as they learn about music.

Questions and Answers about Music Study for Young Beginners

Why should my child study music at a young age?

Recent studies suggest that playing and listening to music at a young age improves learning, memory, reasoning ability and general creativity. Research also supports the theory that young children who are exposed to music develop enhanced cognitive skills. Music teachers are aware that influences of music go far beyond the intellectual and physical development of the child. Studying music contributes to the growth of a well-balanced child in sensitivity, expressiveness and the spirit essential for functioning in a complicated world.

How many levels are contained in LittleMozarts4FUN? What materials are included in each level?

The time required for completion of each of the four levels will vary from class to class. On average, each level can be completed in 18-22 weeks. Three books at each level guide children through a comprehensive approach to musical learning. The Music Lesson Books introduce musical concepts and contain keyboard performance music. The Music Workbooks include coloring and ear training activities to reinforce musical concepts. The Music Discovery Books feature singing, listening, music appreciation, movement and rhythm activities. Other materials at each level include compact disc recordings, interactive Music Tutoring disks, magnetic note/dry erase board, and stuffed animals-Beethoven Bear and Mozart Mouse.

What will my child learn in the course?

LittleMozarts4FUN combines general musicianship activities with those that develop performance skills at the piano. Skills taught in the course focus on keyboard performance, listening, pitch matching, keyboard technique, singing, rhythm, movement and music appreciation. Children will play pieces at the piano throughout each level.

Should my child study privately or in a group?

Historically, pre-school music instruction has been conducted in groups often with parents attending and assisting students in the lessons. This approach is very effective as young students enjoy the interaction with peers. Parents enjoy the opportunity to share these experiences with their children.

What types of things can I expect to happen in the lesson?

Each lesson will include a variety of activities chosen from keyboard performance, singing, music appreciation, coloring, movement, activities with magnetic/dry erase board, listening and rhythm activities. The activities that occur in the lesson are structured to take into consideration the young child's small hands and limited attention span.

How often and how long should my child practice?

After each lesson, your child will get an assignment for the week. Children should practice daily for 10-15 minutes using their Music Tutoring disk as an "in-between-lessons practice partner" at a specific time with no interference from the TV, computer or other family members. It is wise to practice as early in the day as possible, keep a record of practice time and establish a reward system for effective practice. Two brief practice times are preferable to one longer session. The parent should sit near the child during the practice time so that the child doesn't feel isolated.

How often should my child listen to the compact discs? How often should my child use the Music Tutoring disks?

Students and parents should listen to the compact discs on a daily basis. Some days you will listen to specific examples from the child's assignment. Other days you should simply listen to the entire CD as background music. Children absorb the music on the CD and it will motivate them to excel in music study. Children should use the Music Tutoring disk at each practice session since it provides a correct model for the child each time they play.

What is unique about LittleMozarts4FUN ?

The entire LittleMozarts4FUN series was designed to develop creativity in the young child. The story of Beethoven Bear and Mozart Mouse continues through the entire series and the use of the stuffed animals in the actual piano instruction brings the story to life. The integration of the three books and the other materials is necessary to gain the most from the course. The Music Discovery Books offer the most opportunities for self-expression. These books move beyond piano performance through materials for singing, listening, music appreciation, movement, and rhythm activities. Unlike other courses that focus entirely on keyboard performance activities (often beyond the natural technical skills and musical understanding of the child), LittleMozarts4FUN offers a variety of activities to lay the foundation for a lifetime of musical enjoyment.

Copyright © 2006 [LITTLEMOZARTS4FUN].
Scotts Valley and Santa Cruz, CA
All rights reserved.