Music For Young Children (MYC) 2013

Classes available on or Saturday Morning and Afternoon

Why your child should study music

An Integral Part of MYC

Parents are an integral part of an MYC music class – children bond with their parents as they work together to learn the fundamentals of music. 

• Exposure to music makes children smarter.
• Children who take piano lessons are able to learn complex math problems earlier than those who’ve had no musical training.
• Adults who studied music before the age of 12 had better memories for words than those who did not. – researchers at the Chinese University of Hong Kong
• Significantly more of the brain is used during music making than previously thought. – Dr. Lawrence Parsons of the University of Texas – San Antonio
• Rhythmic movement plays a critical role in the reading process – the ability to keep a steady beat – simply clapping hands rhythmically – figures prominently in cognitive development. – Phyllis Weikart the University of Michigan
• Music training, specifically piano instruction, is far superior to computer instruction in dramatically enhancing children’s abstract reasoning skills necessary for learning math and science. – psychologist Dr. Frances Rauscher of the University of Wisconsin
• Preschoolers have lots to gain from listening to music because it encourages movement. – Dr. Rosalie Pratt, Brigham Young University

MYC builds a solid foundation of understanding and enjoyment of music. Singing together creates a special bond. Keyboard playing and rhythm ensembles nurture team skills. Creative movement develops individual expressiveness. Music reading and theory are reinforced with group activities and with colorful, hands-on materials. Composing integrates aural and written skills and gives children a sense of ownership.

Why your child should begin with MYC

Building Confidence

Children build confidence and self esteem as they learn in small, age appropriate groups. Sunbeams students feel encouraged in the open and child-centered environment that makes learning fun! 

• Because it's fun!! (In addition to being of superior quality, very comprehensive, confidence building and a wonderful way to begin the study of music.)
• Because the child and parent bond as a "music team" during lessons and that carries on at home during daily practice and other family activities.
• Because this program provides so much musicianship training to young children that it's got to be seen and heard to be believed!!
• Because a 66% student return rate and a 90% teacher return rate make a statement about the outstanding quality of the program.
• Because 24,000 happy students a year can't be wrong!!

Brain Cooperation in Composition

Scientists have devised a technique that reveals the extent to which different regions of the brain cooperate during musical activities such as listening and composing. Patterns of cooperative function have been found and these patterns can be different when the same person uses different listening strategies. When one person is listening to the pattern and structure in Mozart and then listens to the sound patterns in Schoenberg, his brain waves show differences in their pattern of cooperativity. The amount of brain coherence increases greatly during composition, relative to listening.

The Composition component of MYC allows children to explore creativity, while being given a foundation on which to build. The students are immersed in musical singing and playing and movement and then guided with suggestions as to the structure that is found in many classical compositions. Children are fulfilled with their own creations – some being very analytical first, followed by creativity, while others create first and then become more cognitive. The composition component of MYC enhances the listening component and the theoretical aspects of MYC, as well as the enhancement of self-esteem as the children are delighted with their accomplishments.

"I like composing because it is interesting. I feel happy. I’m proud of the music I create."

Mason, MYC grad, age 10 years 

I have been very impressed by how comprehensive the music education is through MYC.  I don't know of any other program that includes such a good balance of sight reading, ear training, theory, music history, rhythm, and composition.  I like that the children are learning to understand music, not just how to play piano pieces.  I also commend the child friendly, fun and motivating approach of MYC.  My children love practicing and attending classes."

Parent of Liselotte Jongedijk in Toronto