Kindermusik with Sandie @ Keys & Strings Music

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2011-08-03T13:30:00.000-07:00

Recital Tickets

2011-06-05T18:33:00.001-07:00

There are still a few tickets left for recitals. $10.00 each cash only. Get them while at Master Class. No tickets will be sold at the door per the Elks Clubs By-Laws.

Thankful for being a part of my extended Kindermusik Family

2011-05-01T06:13:00.000-07:00

I have been involved with Kindermusik since 1991. It was a decision that I will never regret.

My Daughter Bree went through Young Child many years (this was before Growing, Beginnings, Our Time, Imagine That and Village) she grew each time, increased her knowledge of music, and this weekend just competed in an East Coast Music Event where her team came in 1st place with a Superior rating, and she herself did very well on piccolo and flute. She's 18 now, and a Senior. This was her last competition as a highschool student.

I was reminiscing earlier this week, of where I first started the program, how HUGE it was those first few years when there was nothing else musical for young children to do in the area. How recessions hit (twice!) and new businesses were created to compete for the Kindermusik students......Yet Kindermusik with Sandie is still here!

But that's not what this is blog post is about. It's about continuation. Continuation not just of my Kindermusik program, but continuation of family connections. Of my connection to all of the children who's lives I have musically touched.

I have Kindermusik students who study privately now, with others or myself. Some are in HIGHSCHOOL! I just this week had an old private student bring in her children to join a Kindermusik class. I have had the cousins of some of my graduating students start their own Kindermusik adventure in the last few years.

Currently, out of 64 Kindermusik families...........I have been there to see new children born; once, twice, even three times with 63 of these families. I have been a musical part of their worlds, have even done Kindermusik Parties, Kindermusik Christenings and Kindermusik Hayrides for some of these families.

I have been connected to these families through happy times, and sad times. Just this last year, I heard of the loss of a father, who was taken so suddenly from his family. He himself had contributed many times to Kindermusik events that I had held in the past.

I am so honored, that these families, over these years have wanted Kindermusik with Sandie to be a continuing part of their lives. That sisters tell sisters and brothers what a rewarding experience it is or was for their own children, and I get a renewed attachement to old families. That grandparents tell friends children how it improved their own grandchildrens skills, and I get to know new families.

I know that all of my families have many choices for their children. I cannot thank them enough that they chose me, to share in their childs growth and learning.

Sing with you soon! Ms. Sandie

Should Price be the first or only factor in choosing a music program for your child?

2011-04-07T06:08:00.000-07:00

I've been getting quite a few calls of late from parents wanting to know why my Kindermusik classes and or lessons are so much more expensive (not by much!) than the local Park and Rec programs. Directly in question was my "All Keyed Up" Piano Encounters weeklong camp for young children. The price at my studio for this program is $160.00 for 10 hours. The price for the compared Park and Rec program was $55 for 4 hours (or $137.50 for 10 hours).

My first reply is always, I really can't answer that question as I'm not affiliated with the Park and Rec and/or the people who hold the programs, but I can tell you what I DO know.

These programs are priced lower because they are usually town, state or government subsidized. I myself did a program for special needs years ago in an adjacent town, and they charged families very little. Yet i was still paid my going rate.

In my program, there is a limit of 8 children, it includes music, a CD, a percussion instrument to work on steady beat at home, as well as a true evaluation as to whether your child is ready for private lessons. I pride myself on being honest about a students readiness, as it isn't good to set a child up for failure and discouragement if they truly are not ready.

In my program, you know that your child is working with a licensed and certified educator and musician.

What makes Kindermusik different from other young child music classes? Developmentally appropriate activities and tasks. We make sure that each program is appropriate for YOUR child. Even in our Family Class I make sure to go up to each parent and tell them how to use the activity or instrument in the appropriate way for their childs level. Children from Birth to 7 years of age aren't the same, and should be taught in developmentally appropriate ways!

Also, it is a struggle in these economic times, and sometimes those Park and Rec programs look 'just as good' and definitely look cheaper. Are you sure that program is being taught by an educator and or musician?

Is your child there to 'just have a good time' or to learn? Kindermusik through all it's levels teaches language skills, social skills, cognitive reasoning skills AND note reading and writing. Payment plans ARE available, just ask.

Dollar for Dollar, Kindermusik is still a great value at Kindermusik with Sandie. You receive at home materials including a CD (sometimes 2!) books, instruments and the comfort in knowing that your educator is indeed an educator and a musician!

School year semesters are LESS than $19.00 a week. We offer sibling discounts (almost 50% in our summer programs!) and the reassurance that your child will be learning and growing musically and developmentally.

Sing with you soon!

Sandie

www.musicboxwithsandie.com

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Why music is good for YOUR child....

2011-04-03T09:52:00.001-07:00

Why music is good for YOUR child……

Yes, we’ve all heard it before. Bach for Babies, Mozart for Mommies, you name it, it’s out there. Music makes children smarter, Music helps with grades, Music helps with math skills. It’s almost overload. You see the studies, you glance over the titles….but do you really contemplate it for YOUR child?

A new Kindermusik Dad really got me thinking this week. Dad & Charlie came to visit an Our Time class. Charlie was a happy young man (26 months old). He was exploring every space, every nook and cranny of the living room (waiting area) the great room (class area) and the minds in motion area (aka my eclectic and not child proofed office, forgot to put the gate up!)

I continued to reassure Dad that this exploration was normal. That is was OK for Charlie to touch all of my bins out for the class. That I was happy he felt comfortable enough to go over to the kid sized table and chairs and sit and watch. He always rejoined when something new was brought out to explore. I gradually watched Dad relax, and not follow around so much. He sat on the floor, leaning back and watching his son. The more Dad relaxed, the more Charlie stayed in the class area. The more fun they both began to have….and before we knew it, class was over!

In talking with Dad later, his main purpose to join (and he did join!) was to give his son more social time with other children and families (OH YES!) to learn more about sharing and taking turns (YES AGAIN!) and to have a great time. I loved that this Dad was so ‘in tune’ to what his son needed.

So, what light bulb went off in my musical brain after this great start to a Kindermusik day?

I’m going to work even harder to get to know new families better. To find ways that Kindermusik (or music in general) will help each individual family and child. A child might have recently had a Birth to Three evaluation for fine or gross motor skills, or language delays. Music can help with that. A child might really need guidance processing sequences or routines. Music can help with that. A child might have been recently diagnosed as on the Autistic Spectrum. Music can help with that. A child might be recently adopted and or an only child and not know how to interact with other young people. Music can help with that. A family might be overstressed and just need a way to bond with each other in a fun yet educational way. Music can help with that too.

THIS….is why music is GREAT for YOUR child/children AND family.

Sing with you soon!

Sandie

It's all about the beat!

2011-03-29T04:51:00.000-07:00

In all Kindermusik classes, there is always emphasis on hearing, feeling, moving, and even “seeing” a steady beat. It may seem very elementary, but it is essentially the cornerstone of music.

More importantly, steady beat plays a huge importance in our speech patterns, movement, thoughts and verbal organisation. From a baby’s first hesitant steps, he slowly finds his pace and soon starts to walk steadily and confidently. Our preschoolers who have a strong sense of beat would be able to use the scissors more skillfully. Ever watch a basketball game? The steady dribble of the ball before it is tossed smack into the basket require an acute sense of beat and timing. A master chef needs to have a command of steady beat in his knife skills. Even writers rely on a sense of steady beat and rhythm in their prose to produce a good read.

Because it is such a fundamental element, parents and teachers often do not give sufficient attention to the development of this very important underlying skill – a strong sense of beat. The consequence of insufficient steady beat experiences in early years can result in poor physical coordination, halting speech (in some cases, stuttering), and even weakness in thought flow. Would you have imagined that something so apparently a strictly musical characteristic can have such bearing on so many areas of our functioning?!

Here are some simple and fun activities that you can do with your child at home to reinforce the concept sense of steady beat:

Movement – Turn on the music and pretend to be a marching band. March, stomp or jump to the music. For younger babies, put them on your lap and bounce to a steady beat or dance with them around the room to the steady beat of the music.

Instrument play – Use the instruments from your home materials or make your own. An old pot and spoon will make a very fun ( and loud!) drum. Practice keeping a steady beat along with the music.

Reading – Nursery rhymes are a great way to introduce steady beat. Clap or tap along as you recite your child’s favourite rhymes.

Originally on the Kindermusik Asia Blog by Chiat Goh. Chiat is the Founding Director and Educator Mentor of Kindermusik Asia.

Why Music & Movement are so important to Early Childhood Learning

2011-02-07T09:17:00.000-08:00

An exerpt from a terrific article on Infusing Music and Movement in Early Childhood Learning published in the ECMMA newsletter.

Musical Concepts

Early childhood is a time when comparatives such as big and small, hot and cold, loud and soft, high and low, or fast and slow are introduced. This is a great time to work with musical comparatives as well. “Children seem to demonstrate elements of expressiveness through changes of loudness and speed . . .” (Swanwick, 1991). Teachers should choose a varied repertoire of fast and slow, loud and soft, higher and lower, and smooth and choppy songs.

The concept of fast and slow can be experienced with a lullaby and a march. To help students experience a slow piece, give each student a teddy bear or stuffed animal and sing a song such as the American lullaby Hush, Little Babyor All the Pretty Little Horses, an African-American lullaby from the southern United States. Ask the children to rock a stuffed animal to sleep, as a mother would rock a baby. In contrast, play an excerpt from John Philip Sousa’s Stars and Stripes Forever. Ask children to step the beat, clap, or jump with the music. Children can immediately demonstrate the difference they feel between these two musical ideas.

The Old Grey Cat(Spotlight on Music, 2005) is a fun song that illustrates fast and slow. See the Pony Galloping(Spotlight on Music, 2005) and Rig-a-jig-jig and Away We Go(Feierabend, 2004) are excellent examples of smooth and choppy. My Many Colored Days(Seuss,1996) explores musical contrasts and the book has a recording available.

Once students are familiar with a core of songs, the teacher can start to introduce the comparative words and children can identify the differences. A word wall with the terms Long- Short, Fast-Slow, Loud-Soft, Smooth-Choppy would be very appropriate for the early childhood classroom or home school area.

Watching children during their times of play, teachers and parents can recognize that the fun children have in singing a new song over and over again, exploring new moves with their bodies, or creating new sounds is the method by which they process and retain new information. Implementation of “playing as learning” into all musical activities will allow children to demonstrate their new skills in a joyful atmosphere of learning. Moreover, the knowledge that children are learning as they play through music is simply the icing on the cake.

By Jana Fallin, Ph.D.

with Staci Horton, Susan Vice Bennett, and Diana Taylor

A compliment from an Occupational Therapist

2011-01-31T09:33:00.000-08:00

Stephanie Spurr Scaramuzzo We had a great time at our first class. As an OT (occupational therapist) in the schools I love the flow of the classes and how it does a high movement quick tempo song, followed by a low slow quiet song. This is excellent to maintain a perfect level of alertness and attention for the kids for optimal learning. This OT gives it two thumbs up!

How fantastic is this? She has two children in two different programs. Our Time (toddler) and Imagine That (Pre-K through K) An unsolicited two thumbs up!

Snow delays the start of Kindermusik semester leaves more time to play with Kindermusik Radio!

2011-01-25T02:55:00.000-08:00

It's snowing! (again..........) Since the first class of the semester is so important, and some of us have older siblings who have a school delay........we won't be holding classes this morning. I know, I'm disappointed too, but I don't want anyone rushing to try and get to class on time. We will start the semester next week. Just think, more time to get excited and spread the news. What news you say? Kindermusik Radio news, that's what!

Kindermusik Radio – published by Night and Day Studios (the makers of Peekaboo Barn)

Dance, march, skip, and stretch. Swing your partner and then rock to a lullaby. Smile and laugh. Just like a mini Kindermusik class, the Kindermusik Radio app provides parents with a way to engage and interact with their children—at home, on the go, anywhere.

With 5 stations to choose from, the Kindermusik Radio app will give you access to over 100 of the very finest and authentic reproductions of classic children’s songs, nursery rhymes, and stories, as well as Kindermusik originals. Each song includes lyrics and a corresponding activity designed to stimulate early childhood development. The activities, developed by trained and licensed Kindermusik educators, are based on principles defined by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). With over 30 years of experience, and inspired by the seminal work of early childhood development experts such as Piaget, Montessori, and Greenspan, Kindermusik is the recognized leader in early childhood music and movement curricula and products.

Research shows that music helps children become better learners. Toddlers dance, swing, and sing as they develop their motor and listening skills. Preschoolers jump, skip, rhyme, invent, and sing to the beat as they strengthen pre-reading and pre-math skills. Music soothes the soul, inspires the imagination, and trains the brain. What more is there?

Start the New Year right with Kindermusik in Wallingford CT!

2011-01-21T07:43:00.000-08:00

Aren't you excited to have somewhere to go on these snowy wintery days? Kindermusik with Sandie, the LONGEST continually running Kindermusik program in New Haven/Middlesex Counties is also proud to be the most reasonably priced program for your money. Most of our classes including materials are less than $18.50 a week. You will not only enjoy dancing, instruments, singing and socialization time with other families, but you will also carry it through at home with CD's, story books, activities and instruments at home too!

2011-01-16T05:59:00.000-08:00

No lessons today!

2010-12-27T02:19:00.000-08:00

We are not opening the studio today due to the weather. We will reschedule makeups as soon as possible. Let it snow! Ms. Sandie says go make snow angels and snow men instead of practice JUST For today.

Merry Christmas from Ms. Sandie

2010-12-25T06:39:00.000-08:00

May love ♥ & music ♫ fill your hearts this Christmas or any holiday or precious time you spend & share with your family & friends. ♥ ♫
…………(¯`O´¯)…………
*./ \ .*
……………………..*♫*.…………..………,
• ‘*♥* ‘ • ,
………...……. ‘*• ♫♫♫•*’…….... ….. ‘ *,
• ‘♫ ‘ • ,
* ‘…..….’ * • ♫*♥*♫• * ‘….… * ,
• Merry’ • ,
* ‘….* ‘ •♫♫*♥*♫♫ • ‘ * ‘.…’
‘ • Christmas .
• ‘ ‘ ‘…‘ ‘ • ♫♫♫*♥*♫♫♫• *
‘ ‘…………..x♥x…………..
………….♥…………….

Miss Sandie is excited about her upcoming Village Class

2010-12-18T04:57:00.001-08:00

Village is all about bonding. Helping your child strengthen their listening skills, fine and gross motor skills and strengthening their bodies too!

During our 12 week session we will massage our babies, help them move to the rhythm and steady beat of music (and their own heartbeats!) Share special rocking and dancing time with them.

Explore age appropriate instruments and make new friends (both parents and babies!)

Below is a description of the 12 week sessions themes and activities. All this (including materials!) for just $20.00 a week. (payable in one sum) New Families can also use the discount code "NewFamily" to save $10.00! at http://january2011kindermusikwithsandie.eventbrite.com/

In Hickory, Dickory, Tickle and Bounce, you will enjoy exposing your little one to the sounds of language and modelling and encouraging expressive use of the voice with verses such as ‘Baa Baa Black Sheep’, ‘Cackle, Cackle’, ‘The Duke of York’, and ‘Dickery Dickery Dare’. Hickory, Dickory, Tickle and Bounce, draws on several traditions and includes English rhymes and songs, a lullaby each from Sweden and Italy, the Mexican favourite ‘La Cucaracha’ and both a nursery song and a dance medley from China.

The Rhythm of My Day How many ways can Baby Zoom? Hop in the Zoom Buggy! And find out. Through a variety of songs, chants and instrumental selections you will discover that Baby can enjoy rumbling, squeaking, chugging, bumping, vrooming, swooshing and more. What baby sees from the buggy is important. Familiar tunes and old favourites such as Little Red Caboose, Lightly Row and Canoe Song are joined together with new and less familiar songs (soon to become favourites, I suspect!) – all used in activities designed to help Baby move down that fascinating road of development. 2 CD's, 2 books, 2 age appropriate accessories 12 week semester.

We are on CTCentral.com! click the Z

2010-12-16T06:23:00.000-08:00

Gingerbread Workshops for two different age groups on Sunday December 12th

2010-11-19T06:52:00.000-08:00

A great day to help YOU get ready for the holidays. Our Gingerbread workshop is always a fun event. Have Mom, Dad or even Grandma or Grandpa come with your younger child or children to our toddler/preschooler event from 10 - Noon. In those two hours they will enjoy one on one time in a Kindermusik type holiday class with instruments, singing and dance. Make a simple holiday craft and decorate a gingerbread cookie that Ms. Sandie baked herself! Enjoy some cider and sweets too.

For your older child ages 5 and up you can do the drop off class from 12:30 to 2:30. Finish up your shopping, wrapping or take some time for yourself! All of the same activities but designed for the older child. Holiday Songs, instrument play and dancing. Let's turn into a snowman! Do a holiday craft and decorate a gingerbread cookie that Miss Sandie baked herself! Enjoy some cider and sweets too.

Each event just $21.49 and includes all that is in description. To register onlinehttp://www.eventbrite.com/event/1046739827

Kindermusik and Special Needs Children

2010-09-24T06:28:00.000-07:00

We can’t get enough of the amazing “firsts” that occur in ABC Music & Me among children with special needs. The first time a child speaks. The first time a child sings. The first time a child taps a drum without hand-over-hand assistance. A child finishing your sentence as you recite a poem.

It’s a rare program that can engage and educate a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, a child with a hearing impairment, a fully non-verbal child, and a child with developmental delays . . . all in one room, and all with quantifiable impact.

In observing the impact of music on so many children with so many unique learning profiles, we realize that music truly is universal. The research is catching up with what teachers have known for ages: music's impact on cognition and skills-development is indisputable.

Listening Skills are Critical to School Success

2010-09-24T06:21:00.001-07:00

Listening Skills are Critical to School Success

“Learning to listen is a prerequisite to listening to learn,”stresses researcher Mayesky (1986).Listening is the first language mode that children acquire, and it provides a foundation for all aspects of language and reading development. Despite the frequency of listening activity in classrooms, listening skills are not frequently taught explicitly (Hyslop & Tone, 1988; Newton, 1990). As a result, many children do not acquire the listening skills necessary to acquire new knowledge and information.

Why don’t we teach children how to listen?
Too often listening is thought to be a natural skill that develops automatically, but in fact developing good listening skills requires explicit instruction.

Why is it necessary?
Listening is a very large part of school learning, with students spending an estimated 50 to 75 percent of classroom time listening to the teacher, to other students, or to media (Smith, 1992). “Most teachers teach, assuming that because they are talking, their students are listening” (Swanson, 1996).

What does “teaching listening” look like?
Direct instruction in listening skills should include “lessons designed to specifically teach and model the skills necessary for active listening” (Matheson, Moon & Winiecki, 2000).

How does music teach listening?
Musical activities are cited by researchers as effective experiences for building listening skills in the classroom (Hirt-Mannheimer, 1995; Wolf, 1992), including in inclusive classrooms for children with disabilities (Humpal & Wolf, 2003). An experimental study with young English language learners showed that focused listening instruction can benefit listening comprehension for children learning a second language as well (Goh & Taib, 2006).

In fact, recent brain research (Flohr et al, 1996) shows that music training changes and improves brain functioning related to listening. An experimental study with children ages 4 to 6 provided music training for 25 minutes for 7 weeks, and then measured brain activity. Those children who had received musical training produced EEG frequencies associated with increased cognitive processing and greater relaxation.

Flohr, J. et al (1996). Children’s electrophysiological responses to music. Paper presented at the International Society for Music Education World Conference, Amsterdam; Goh, C. & Taib, Y. (2006). Metacognitive instruction in listening for young learners. ELT Journal, 60(3), 222-232; Hirt-Mannheimer, J. (1995). Music Big for Little Folks. Teaching Music, 3(2), 38-39; Humpal, M.E. & Wolf, J. (2003). Music in the Inclusive Classroom. Young Children, 58(2), 103-107; Hyslop, N. & Tone, B. (1988). Listening: Are we teaching it, and if so, how? ERIC Digest 3. (ERIC Document No. 295132), ERIC Clearinghouse on Reading and Communication Skills, Bloomington, IN; Mayesky, M. (1986). Creative activities for children in the early primary grades. Albany, NY: Delmar Publishers; Newton, T. (1990). Improving students’ listening skills. Idea paper No. 23. Kansas State University, Manhattan Center for Faculty Evaluation and Development in Higher Education. Manhattan, KS; Smith, C. (1992). How can parents model good listening skills? ACCESS ERIC. (ERIC Document No. RI890120, ERIC Clearinghouse on Reading and Communication Skills; Swanson, C. (1996). Who’s listening in the classroom? A research paradigm. Paper presented at the Annual Convention of the International Listening Association, Sacramento, CA.

Kindermusik classes have started with a shake, a rattle, a scarf and a bang!

2010-09-15T09:35:00.001-07:00

Wow, what a great first week of classes! We started off with Imagine That on Friday September 10th. We discussed how music can be found in our homes, in things we do every day and in the weather. The new week had all of our Toddler Milk and Cookie classes. What fun! We did an ostinato pattern with the word Dust Dust Dust (rest) and then dusted with scarves (not really.............just for fun!) We also got to try our brand new stir xylophones and take them home! Then we had more Imagine That classes with new friends. Always a pleasure to make new friends!

Our Signing and ABC Kindermusik Time to Make Music classes will start in October. Don't miss out!

Music for children with Autism and Special Needs

2010-09-05T07:52:00.000-07:00

This article is borrowed from several newspaper articles which are quoted at the end. I post this as one of my greatest joys is working with children on the Spectrum as well as other special needs children in both Kindermusik AND private lessons on piano AND violin. I have had nonverbal children who won't make eye contact learn how to read music. To share these joyful experiences with families of special needs children (and young adults) is one of the reasons I continue to work on my own skills and learning.

While most everyone is aware of the fact that autism brings many challenges and obstacles to the lives of those affected by the disorder, there are many facests of autism that people are not aware of.

One such characteristic of autism is the fact that most autistic children have little to no impairment in musical ability. This is largely due to the fact that most people who have autism are more severely affected in the left hemisphere of their brains. The left hemisphere is the more verbally inclined part of the brain, while the right hemisphere is responsible for functions employed in such areas as art, music, and abstract mathematics.

Children with autism often have a great deal of difficulty recognizing the emotional tone in verbal speech, yet almost all of them can easily tell the difference between “happy” and “sad” music. (1) They often have a high degree of enjoyment for music because it is easier for them to relate to and decode music than it is for them to take part in verbal dialogues. They often display a great aptitude for remembering song lyrics and are more likely to initiate a conversation through singing than through speech. Additionally, greater motivation and attention, as well as a higher level of emotional engagement when taking part in musical activities is often seen in children with autism.

Recent studies have revealed that there is an area within the right hemisphere of the brain that mirrors the part of the left brain responsible for interpreting letters and words. This part is responsible for understanding musical notes and passages of notes. (1) Some ability of transfer has been seen by which the right hemisphere can assist in verbal functions when the left is incapacitated. This is evidenced by the fact that some people with severe stutters resulting from brain damage or otherwise are able to sing unimpeded, such as the famous country music star Mel Tillis. Medical professionals say that these cases indicate that musical training can be highly beneficial in enabling the right hemisphere of the brain to acquire left hemisphere abilities. Such activities as playing/singing music to a young child or having them do the singing themselves (as well as dancing or taking part in other rhythmic activities ) could very well aid in developing the neurological structures needed for the learning of language.

Piano lessons have proven very helpful for both high functioning autistic children as well as people who are not mentally impaired in improving verbal and communication abilities. Many areas of cognitive function are improved such as auditory processing, memory, bilateral coordination, and fine motor skills. (1)

The Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) of the United Kingdom completed an analysis of autistic children’s musical abilities which helped them to discover that the majority of children with autism have an excellent level of proficiency in tone recognition. Dr Pamela Heaton of the ESRC was quoted as saying, “A lot of work has been done on musical autistic savants with exceptional musical memory and rarely found absolute perfect pitch ability. However, our research shows that even non savant autistic children without these special talents and no musical training can have highly developed musical ‘splinter skills’. If we could develop effective non verbal musical training methods, we might be able to understand more about the way these children learn and process other information.” (2)

During the same investigation, a group of juveniles with autism and a group of non autistic juveniles were tested with a series of musically related tasks. One such test consisted of the subjects using a touch screen laptop to identify notes by moving an image of a child up and down a flight of stairs. The autistic children were especially interested in this and they were able to complete the test with 89% accuracy as compared to the 30% accuracy achieved by the control group. (2)

This further points out the advanced attention to detail and analytical listening abilities possessed by many autistic children which can be honed further through immersion in music and musical training.

While children with autism have time and again been proven to benefit from involvement with music, the positive change that music can bring into lives is not only limited to those with autism. A 2009 article in the Chicago Tribune details the strides made by two young women through musical training. One of these young women has Down Syndrome and the other is afffected by attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

In addition, the article points out the fact that more and more students with disabilities are being signed up for music lessons, both for instruments and voice than ever before. This is partially due to the ability of music to engage and challenge the auditory, motor, and visual function of the brain through listening, reading, notes, and manually playing musical instruments. Listening to music has also been proven to stimulate the areas of the brain in responsible for paying attention, making predictions, and updating memory, according to Vinod Menon, associate professor of psychiatry, behavioral science, and neurosciences at Stanford University. He continues to state that making music is a good way to “engage multiple networks in the brain”.(3)

With all of the benefits of musical training being discovered by medical professionals and by private citizens for those with disabilities, it is no wonder that enrollment for people with special needs is increasing exponentially. Much work and research remains to be done, but it seems that right now we are only beginning to scratch the surface of the wonders that music and music lessons can work for people with special needs.

Bennet, Sue “Gifted and Disabled” Autism Coach www.autismcoach.com/gifted_with_learning_disabilitie.htm
Economic and Social Research Council. “Autistic Children Show Outstanding Musical Skills”. May 27, 2004
Music Therapy: Teachers Strike and Emotional Chord With Disabled Students. Chicago Tribune. December 21,2009

I'm a proud member!

2010-08-26T08:25:00.000-07:00

Kindermusik Works by getting Children ready for the future!

2010-08-25T19:27:00.000-07:00

Get your little ones ready for the future.

You've probably heard that exposing your child to music is good for his or her development. It's true, and the research proves it.

But how can you be sure your child is getting the right exposure to music? Well, a child who participates in Kindermusik:

-scores higher on reading comprehension tests

improves spatial-temporal reasoning scores (like sequencing and visualization) by three times

-experiences a two-fold increase in self-control, which is crucial to future learning -- children who wait their turn, listen to direction, and allow others to speak have a considerable advantage heading into a school setting.

Kindermusik is based on careful research and proven methods. It really works. Give us a try and see for yourself.

Research proves that Kindermusik works! Check out the research for yourself at our Benefits of Kindermusik page. There you'll find research summaries and full white papers on how Kindermusik can benefit your child.

Kindermusik Helps you Raise Great Children!

2010-08-25T05:22:00.000-07:00

Musical Solutions to parenting dilemmas
Many parents first consider Kindermusik because of the developmental and educational benefits to their child. In class, they quickly see that Kindermusik offers something for the grownups, too.

Kindermusik helps to make parenting a little bit easier through in-class tips, child development insights and activities in our weekly emails, not to mention the community of other parents and caregivers who attend class together.
We invite you to join in the conversation yourself. See how other parents use Kindermusik to help with potty training, toddler tantrums, getting a preschooler out of bed in the morning, and more on the Kindermusik Facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kindermusik/24135466916

For 30 years, Kindermusik has remained constant as the single best choice you can make for your child today.

New Program that incorporates Music and Floortime for Special Needs

2010-08-24T04:10:00.000-07:00

Wonderkids, a new program that combines music and floortime for families with all developmental issues.

• Dedicated to Children With Relating & Communicating Challenges
• Learn Strategies to Strengthen Your Connection With Your Child
• Understand Why They Do What They Do
• Use Play & Music to Enhance Your Child’s Overall Development
• Discover Help in a Relaxed & Enjoyable Atmosphere
• Very Small Class Size

- Includes Parent Coaching to Support You Through -
The Challenging Moments

Where All Children are welcomed with
Open Arms, Hearts and Minds
Or Call 203-804-0024
For Additional Information

Offered by Lisa Burton Pediatric Occupational Therapist and Sandie Apuzzo Music Educator

A Sing & Sign ASL and Music Class

2010-08-12T17:05:00.000-07:00

2010-08-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

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2010-08-03T18:46:00.000-07:00

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ASL Classes at Keys & Strings Music Studio/ Kindermusik with Sandie

2010-07-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

Sign & Sing offers a uniquely different approach from other sign language programs. Through songs, toys, and loving playtime between you and your child, Kindermusik Sign & Sing shows you more than 50 signs your child can use to communicate with you. Using research-proven methods shown to speed language development in hearing children, you'll see how sign language can ease frustration and enhance long-term learning abilities for your child. Visit www.musicboxwithsandie.com and click Kindermusik logo for more information

Rock N Bows fiddle intensive

2010-07-15T04:10:00.001-07:00

We are so excited that our Fiddle Intensive is starting next week on the 19th. Not just fiddlers, but guitar, percussion, keyboard too. It is going to be a blast! Sing with you Soon!

Peoples Press makes me a star for a day!

2010-05-06T06:58:00.000-07:00

It's great that our local paper is showcasing local businesses. I was blessed to be one of it's first ones mentioned! Please visit
http://www.peoplespressnews.com/peoplespress/newspaper/article.cfm?img=page1.gif&issue=198 and see all the great local businesses in Wallingford.

Summer sessions 2010

2010-03-24T04:31:00.000-07:00

Toddlers (crawling through 3.5 years) can visit "Animals on the Farm" and float "Up in the Sky". Both 4 week sessions (for just $110.00 each!) include a CD, songbook and either hardwood rhythm sticks or a three bell jingle. Parents are included, and classes are held the same day and time for 45 minutes. Sessions start Mid May and Late June.

Children 4 - 6 Can enjoy Drums Drums Drums where they will explore African and Latin Drumming with a young boy who wants to be in a drum circle. Includes a drum, CD and song book! Classes are 60 minutes and meet for 4 weeks on the same day and time. All this for just $125.00!

Children from 4 - 8 years are welcome to learn the Rhythm of Our Lands.....the study of music in the Native American Culture. Join Ms. Sandie who is part Akwesasne Tribe Mohawk Nation in our exploration of various area tribes, culture differences, language, music, food and stories. Includes a bell jingle (various types) crafts, cd and songbook. Snacks also offered, that will include corn, egg, milk and salmon. Please advise about food allergies. 60 minute classes held 4 weeks same day and time. Just $125.00!

Piano Encounters is a perfect way for the young child to be exposed to piano in a fun camp like atmosphere. Limited to 8 children, we will be meeting for a full week each day from 9 - 11 a.m. Learn how to read note values and pitch, the difference between staccato and legato, proper position at the piano/keyboard and more! Includes all materials and a daily snack. Just $140.00!

For the entire family we have PAJAMA FAMILY TIME! Meeting Friday evenings starting in June at 730 p.m. for 60 minutes meeting for 8 weeks same day/time. The entire family will enjoy this fun way to start off the weekend. Includes 2 CD's, puppets, 2 finger drums and more! $220.00 per family fee, limited to 12 families.

FIDDLE CAMP! July 19 - 23rd 9:30 am. - 1 pm. each day. Rock n Roll Intensive for fiddlers, piano players, percussionists, guitarists too! Fiddlers must be at the end of suzuki 1 to join us. We'll be doing it like David Garrett!
Participants MUST be near the end of Suzuki 1 to participate. Bag lunch to be brought each day but Friday (pizza will be delivered and included in your participation fee) Performance to be scheduled for the weekend ending the event. Explore the history and excitment of Jazz, Rock n Roll, Popular and fiddle! Learn how to take a contemporary tune and switch it over to fiddle style. Learn the history and stories behind the pieces. We will also do fun theory based games, such as listening bingo, improv, rhythm challenges and more! Designed for children through adult, come join the fun! Includes 17.5 hours of class time, music (please bring a 3 ring binder) pizza on Friday, Performance and any props needed. Performance locations TBD. Minimum 6, Max 20. $170.00 all inclusive.

Want to make the fun of FIDDLE CAMP last? We've added an extended day option from 1 - 4 pm. Extended hours to extend the fun! Music theory games, composition work, snacks and crafts provided. Red Cross Certified babysitter will also be on hand to help. $100.00 for these additional 15 hours.

Register online at www.musicboxwithsandie.com

If you are a parent, an educator of any subject, this lecture is a must see

2010-03-12T10:37:00.000-08:00

Though I find a connection with all of my students, it's the special needs child that tugs most at my 'heart strings'. It's this child that causes me to continually find new ways to teach and reach them.

I feel an earnest connection with Temple Grandin, a professor who was diagnosed as a young child with Autism. Here in her Ted.com lecture, she discusses why ALL classes need to be taught, as all children think and learn differently. How cutting music, art, the hands on classes such as woodworking and metal working are doing our children, our country a disservice. Please take the time to watch.

http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/temple_grandin_the_world_needs_all_kinds_of_minds.html

Practice Competition Winners

2010-01-31T06:20:00.001-08:00

On December 1st we started a Practice Competition that all students were given the form and rules to. This competition set goals of 3 levels, 12 - 17 hours, 18 - 24 hours and 25 plus hours within a 45 day period. The rules were stated on the compeition forms that had to be turned in that they had to be turned in by January 9th, 2010. Prizes were adjusted to give a larger prize to 1st, 2nd and 3rd with runner up prizes based on hours practiced.

The goal was to help children add more instrument time to their daily routine with a reward for their hard work of a gift card to local businesses. We hope that this years winner's hard work will get everyone excited to participate when we offer it again next school year.

The winner's were:

Sitara Zoberi 16.75 hours

$20 Itunes giftcard

Lilli Cartiera 16.5 hours

$20 Showcase Cinema giftcard

Hilal Zoberi 14 hours

$15 Toys R Us giftcard

Nicholas Marinelli 12 hours

$10 Gamestop giftcard

Morgan McNabola 12 hours

$10 Walmart giftcard

Megan Niu 9 hours

$5 Barnes and Noble giftcard

Rebecca Spadacenta 9 hours

$5 Panera Bread giftcard

A message to my performers at Masonic today

2010-01-09T15:20:00.000-08:00

I am so proud of you today. You all handled everything beautifully. Yes, some of us were nervous (including me, I'm sure you noticed). I normally give you the "I love you even if I don't say it as soon as you play" speech, but I forgot to do it today. I'm sorry. I love you. I think you are great people and great musicians. Thank you for being a part of my world.

Studio Closed Early New Years Eve due to large amount of cancellations

2010-01-01T10:45:00.000-08:00

In order to accomodate lessons on New Years eve the studio opened at 8 a.m. to start teaching at 8:30 through 6:30 p.m. A brief snowstorm did go through the area, but was limited in length of time and snowfall. The amount of last minute cancellations caused us to make the decision to close the studio at Noon. Lessons were given up until that point.

Holiday Open House December 2009

2009-12-18T03:39:00.000-08:00

Food, Fun, and of course music! We had performers ranging from first timers (Young Child Glockenspeilist Ricky B!) To experienced old hatters (Baroque members). It was a fun fun time. Jay played Santa's helper and gave out gifts from Santa's sack. Bree even serenaded us with the "Godfather Theme" even though she was soaked from attending the Wallingford Christmas events in the pouring rain. Please enjoy the photos, and hopefully you can join us next year!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2044289&id=1419474370&l=d7caf11d6b

Practice Contest Coming Soon!

2009-10-26T14:51:00.001-07:00

For our private students, an incentive to spend more time with your instrument. Starting in December, we will start our practice competition. All private study students from Pre-Kindergarten through Twelfth grade are eligible. For the month of December and first week in January, keep strict records of your practice time. Those with 25 or MORE hours by January 9th 2010 can pick a GRAND PRIZE! Those with 18 - 24 hours will get a FIRST RUNNER UP PRIZE! Those with 12 - 17 hours will get a SECOND RUNNER UP PRIZE. Keep your eyes on the blog, facebook and the bulletin board at the studio for more information.

The Joy of Being a Teacher

2009-09-13T11:44:00.001-07:00

Our Fiddlestix ensemble performed last night at the Zion Lutheran Church in town. We had some real challenges...........we lost a few fiddlers, and our percussion and keyboardist couldn't come. Our one last fellow sprained his hand a few hours prior in a football game.

But we pulled ourselves up by our bootstraps..........and it was the best performance yet! Better than the one 20 hours into our work together. The spirit of the event came upon us and we played our hearts out.

Our newest member, Brooke L. asked just yesterday morning if she could join us.......and she played a terrific rendition of "Go Tell Aunt Rhody".

Every step that these students take.........every new technique, every song perfected makes my heart soar.

I am grateful that I have a profession that I run to each morning, and if it were not for my family I wouldn't leave at night. May everyone someday find something that they love to go to every day.

Music and Math Play Work Together!

2009-09-09T18:53:00.002-07:00

There is no longer any doubt that there is a significant link between early music instruction and cognitive growth in certain other "nonmusical" abilities such as math, memory and spatial-temporal reasoning. In fact, studies focused specifically on music for young children even suggest that these cognitive gains increase according to the number of years that students engage in active music learning, and even that the younger children when they begin, the greater the gains will be!

Free e-book The Impact of Music on Mathematics Achievement by Deanne Kells M.A. Download your copy here

http://www.kindermusik.com/classes/downloads/ImpactOfMusicOnMath.pdf

Fiddlers are fiddling again!

2009-09-04T18:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday at September 12th at 6:30 p.m. we are playing at the Zion Lutheran Church of Wallingford at the intersection of Pond Hill Rd (Wallingford) and Scrub Oak Road (North Haven) . Bring a picnic and join us!

Fiddle Camp 2009

2009-08-21T10:29:00.000-07:00

Fiddle Camp Day two Amazing! Fiddle Camp Day 3............It's a Devils Dream going to Georgia via Cincinatti Racing through a Camptown on a Wabash Train while Biling the Cabbage Down. Wow! Today is Fiddle Camp Day 5......... Bridget says "Miss Sandie, we sound like a real orchestra". That's right Bridget, we do. To you and all your fiddle mates, Bravo. Please come hear us play on Sunday August 23rd, 3 p.m. Wallingford Gazebo Train Depot park.

What class should my child join in Kindermusik?

2009-07-22T12:45:00.000-07:00

A great question............I always go by development rather than age in our Kindermusik........well in ANY of our programs at Keys & Strings. Children with a strong sense of independence and mobility but are under age 3 will probably be best in our Toddler program (Wiggles and Giggles) with a parent or caregiver.

If you are looking into nursery or preschool for your child (around age 3) and they are potty trained, then let's talk about our Preschool programs. Is your child in the 2nd year of nursery/preschool? We can continue with the Preschool programs or move forward into Young Child levels. Every child is different, every student learns differently. Give me a call at 203.265.1500 to discuss all of your childs options.......

2009-07-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

I actually encourage this behaviour. Sometimes.........

Kindermusik Fall Session is Starting Soon!

2009-07-15T17:24:00.001-07:00

Did you know that if you refer a friend who registers, you get a $10.00 credit towards your session? Start referring, and make sure they let me know you sent them! New session starts September 8th (day after Labor Day). Bring a friend to your next class so they can see what we are all about.

Fiddle Camp Expectations

2009-07-02T19:11:00.000-07:00

Fiddle Camp is fast approaching..........and I'm sensing different emotions for the participants. The one expectation we (including me!) should have is no expectations. I want this to be fun. I want this to be enjoyable. I planned on all the group pieces to be easy to moderate for instant gratification. We'll do some ear training and playing by ear........but you also get the music to take home. If you want a solo for the fiddlestix debut, ask at your next lesson. We'll start working on that right away..........

Bottom line (or note) is to HAVE FUN! String with you soon!

Summer Officially Begins! Music Lessons recharged!

2009-06-20T17:28:00.000-07:00

Well, recital is over, schools are letting out, and it's time to relax and unwind. To an extent, this is so true, but on the other side of the coin, it's time to Kick it Up! With less obligations to school, religious studies and more, you and your child can intensify music study without drudgery. Ask your teacher to mix things up with a new song or style of music. Been only studying classical? Try some blues or jazz. Join fiddle camp! Research some composers and ask to try one who's life or times grab your interest.