When is the best time to start music lessons?

I am frequently asked by parents at what age should they enroll their child in music classes. The answer varies. If you are talking private music lessons on a specific instrument such as guitar or piano, my answer is dependent on the child. Can they attend to a task for 20-30 minutes? Can they track across a page? Do they know their alphabet (at least A-G!) and can they count meaningfully to 4? If the answer is yes to these questions, then the child is ready for lessons. If the answer is no, perhaps a group music class which is based in rhythm and singing is best.

"Rockin Rugrats" is such a class. It is held Monday mornings at Music of the Bay from 9:15 to 10:00. Grave Morrison is the teacher. She uses live music, rhythm instruments, call and response games and game songs to engage children ages 3.5-5 years in meaningful music play. Students will experience steady beat, rhythmic patterns, melodic patterns and creativity in an upbeat, engaging 45 minute class.

Call 508-759-2214 to register. Class starts Monday, June 4, 2012. Tuition is $100 for 4 weeks. Drop-in fee of $25 per class. Visit www.musicofthebay.com to read Grace's biography and learn more about Music of the Bay.