Dear Parents,

I’m pleased to let you know that a new semester of the “Keys-for-Kids” program starts on February, 4th, 2010.
Here is the latest information:

An Open House (a free demo class) will be offered on Tuesday, February 2nd at 4:30 PM.

Where: Newton Keys-for-Kids Newton studio.
27 Clarendon St. Newton (near Cabot Elementary School)

The subsequent regular classes will run on Thursdays at 4:30 PM. The first class is on February 4th.

To get information about individual lessons call or email Marina Gorny.

About Keys for Kids
Young children are by nature incredibly enthusiastic about music. Research studies have shown that early childhood is an ideal time to expose children to various positive musical experiences. These experiences enhance student's self-concept, thinking abilities, communication and social skills. "Keys for Kids" can open up a world of new, exciting experiences, add a new dimension to your child's life. The main goal of this program is to provide students with a solid musical foundation, regardless of future instrumental choice.

“Keys for Kids” offers a change from traditional piano methods. It teaches well-rounded musicianship. In a supportive and fun atmosphere, students work and play with rhythms, practice ear training, music reading, harmonization and composition. They acquire musical language skills through “building blocks”, patterns, similar to language acquisition, or reading. Creativity and self-expression are strongly encouraged. Students enjoy sharing music with their friends and are motivated by group experience.

• Philosophy and attitude
• About the method
• Curriculum
• Free demonstration class
• Parental attendance
• Make-up lessons
• How to enroll

Philosophy and Attitude
The program is based on the understanding of fundamental musical concepts and is tuned to the specific developmental stages of young children. It fosters a life-long love of music and joy of making music. From day one students read pitches and rhythms, receive ear training and play instruments. Active participation makes music a natural part of child's life. The keyboard provides a perfect medium for creating all three elements of music (melody, harmony and rhythm) through solo and ensemble playing. Creativity and self-expression are strongly encouraged in the program.
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About the method
This highly acclaimed method was created by Inga Magid, an experienced music educator*. In “Keys for Kids” course, students acquire musical language skills through patterns, "building blocks", similar to language acquisition or reading. Lessons are highly structured, every minute counts. With little children, activities change every few minutes. Students participate in rhythm band, keyboard ensemble, playing solo and in a group. In fun games they acquire skills vital for musicianship.

· To learn more about the author, see the "Keys for Kids" website.
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Curriculum
Designed as a multi-year program of study, “Keys For Kids” is divided into three age groups. Each group follows sequential levels, with each level comprised of 15 lessons:

• ages 4-5: Mini Keys (Level 1, 2, 3)
• ages 5-8: Kinder Keys (Level 1, 2, 3)
• ages 8-11: Super Keys (Level 1, 2, 3, 4)

Prior to registering, beginners are offered a free demonstration class. Continuing “Keys For Kids” students are combined into classes appropriate to their past experience. Built-in flexibility allows students to stay in the program for varying lengths of time, from 4 months to 4 years, depending on their age and family objectives.

Each class lasts 45 minutes and meets once a week. Between the classes students need access to a piano or a portable keyboard (with full-size keys and 4-5 octaves). Daily practice is important to ensure progress in class.

Should you wish to purchase a keyboard, Costco is one of the places to consider: suitable keyboards cost there around $130.00.
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Parental attendance
Parents/caregivers attend weekly classes with their children. With parental involvement, students have a support system at home, are encouraged to practice, and are more likely to continue their musical studies. As a parent/caregiver you do not need to know music when you come here with your child, but please have an active interest.

Make-up lessons
If your child misses a class, the teacher will send you the homework via e-mail. At the discretion of the teacher, the child will receive a private make-up lesson if needed.

• Fill in the application form, mark your schedule preferences, and send it via e-mail to Marina Gorny to register for the class.
• Tuition fee of $350 (15 classes, registration fee and a course book) is due before the first class.
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Due to small group sizes there are no refunds unless the class in which you enroll is cancelled by the studio.
Early registration is recommended.