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Group Lessons for Young Children Ages 3 to 7

Studies indicate that music training generates the neural connections in the brain used for abstract reasoning, including the spatial-temporal ability necessary for understanding mathematical concepts. One study showed that young children who took piano lessons performed 34% higher on spatial-temporal ability tests than did other children. They could think in pictures and see the pictures moving or changing shape over time – a crucial skill for later success in mathematics, science and engineering.

Another study observed two separate groups of young children. Group one children took piano lessons. Group two children did not. After eight months the children taking piano lessons were expert puzzle masters and scored 80% higher than their peers in spatial intelligence.

Still another research team reported that piano lessons are far superior to computer instruction in enhancing children’s abstract reasoning skills. They concluded “Piano lessons jump-start certain inherent patterns in parts of the brain responsible for such reasoning. Computer lessons do not force children to think ahead or visualize, as they must when playing music.”

Structure

Group Piano Lessons for young children provide fun and interesting music instruction to beginning students from 3 to 7 years of age. Because young children learn faster while having fun, computer games are used in place of a workbook to teach music theory. The music theory session lasts 15 minutes and is followed with a 30-minute keyboard lesson. Singing and movement exercises are interspersed to keep children involved and teach concepts such as tempo, pitch and rhythm.

Competencies

Lessons feature sight-reading, correct technique, and theory. Students will enjoy playing the piano and begin to read music and explore the keyboard.

Students will learn to:

• Read music and play three octaves around middle C
• Use correct hand, body and arm position
• Play major keys, basic chords and scales
• Play by ear using intervals
• Recognize key signatures
• Write their own music

When students reach this level, they are ready for private lessons.