Early Childhood Studies
The Preparatory School recognizes the learning potential in the early years of development, and offers a variety of musical opportunities for young children.
Eurhythmics
TBA, Instructor
Eurhythmics is a study of music through movement and is based on the interaction of ear, mind, and body. Classes nurture the imagination while encouraging musical exploration and the understanding of musical concepts and skills. Students discover the body as a uniquely expressive musical instrument.
The Eurhythmics classes are recommended as preparation for instrumental study as well as a complementary theory component in the early years of private instrumental instruction.
The following leveled sequence of classes (Level I–Advanced) is taught through games, problem solving, and improvisations that focus on ear training, musicianship, and music fundamentals such as rhythm, meter, tempo, form, melody, articulation, phrase, dynamics, texture, and notation, drawn from a broad variety of musical traditions. (Ages listed are a guideline. Final placement for all Eurhythmics classes is at discretion of instructor.)
Pre-Instrumental
Saturday
Level I—Ages 4–4 1/2, 9:00–10:00 a.m.
Level II—Ages 5–5 1/2, 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Level III—Ages 6–7, 11:00–12:00 noon
Intermediate/Advanced (Instrumental experience required)
Ear training, singing, and movement activities combine with music reading, analysis, and improvisation with a special emphasis on rhythm, meter, and rhythmic dictation. Through the coordination of ear, mind, and body, students develop and sharpen music theory fundamentals as well as musicianship skills such as listening, sightreading, concentration, discrimination, memory, internalization, and motor control.
Intermediate/Advanced
Saturday
Ages 7–9: 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Suzuki Violin, Cello and Flute
Nancy Hair, Cello
Susan Jarvis, Violin
Kim Lorimier, Flute
Shinichi Suzuki believed that “any child who is properly trained can develop musical ability just as all children develop the ability to speak their mother tongue.” This approach to learning creates a close relationship between the child, parent, and teacher. The parent is not only present at all classes and lessons but is also the daily home teacher. The principles of the Suzuki method include daily listening, development of concentration and memory skills, learning to work with other students, parents, and teachers in group activities, and continual repetition and refinement of techniques, which allows students to build on successes. The Suzuki approach sustains a positive environment for growth.
Students are required to register separately for private lessons and weekly group class.
Beginning Suzuki students are encouraged to participate in the Eurhythmics Program.
Double Bass Instruction
Helen Stevenson, Instructor
The recent development of miniature double basses (in graduated sizes similar to Suzuki violins and cellos) now enables children as young as five or six to begin studying this important orchestral instrument without losing years of potential study because of the instrument’s size. Previous musical experience is helpful but not necessary. Parental support, however, is essential (attendance at all lessons and guiding the daily home practice sessions).
An important addition to the private lesson is participation in a 28-week bass ensemble. This one-hour group lesson provides an opportunity not only to learn essential ensemble skills and techniques but also to gain experience in solo performance practice.
Instruments are available to borrow at no charge through the NEC Preparatory School.
Beginners—1/2 hour
Basics—1/2 hour (1–2 years instruction)
Bassketeers—1 hour
Singing Circle
Jean Meltaus, Instructor
An introduction to singing through folk songs and musical games, this nonperformance oriented group is designed to help children ages 7–8 find their “singing voice” and have fun with singing.
Saturday, 9:00–9:55 a.m.
The ages listed are a guideline. Placement by audition. Please call the office about dates and procedures.