Parent/Caregiver Model

You might be surprised to hear that you are your child's most important music teacher right now—and it doesn't matter whether you think of yourself as a great singer or dancer. 

A child's favorite and most influential model is an adult with whom they have a close bond- that's you! The parent-child musical interaction is key, and that is why it is called Music Together^®! You don't need music knowledge or skill, come prepared to be silly and have fun. ​ You'll discover new ways to play with music at home, and with the help of the songbook and recordings, support your child’s music-learning and overall development all week long.

Child Centered

At Music Together^®, children are never required to sit in the circle or expected to conform to an adult's idea of participation. We know that children learn differently from adults. They learn instinctively and constantly, through observation, imitation, play, and, especially, movement.

Children get to respond in their own way and in their own time. There is no expectation to sit still, perform on cue or follow directions. The class environment we create is structured, but free. This creates the disposition to try new things and stimulates the learning cycle of play, discovery, practice, and mastery.

Music Immersion

Since children learn by watching and listening, our approach is to immerse the children in a rich musical environment full of interesting sounds, movements, rhythms, meters, and tonalities. With various kinds of instruments to play, silly things to laugh at, and lots of different models to follow, children naturally learn how to make music.

We recommend that you play your songs frequently, especially during the first few weeks of class. Make the music available for your child to listen to while she is playing or before nap or bedtime. Create your Music Together account and download the app for digital versions of the songs and more activity ideas to try! Try using the songbook at storytime!

FAQ's

What is the class size?

Each class has between 6 and 12 registered children, plus their caregiver(s).

What if I miss a class during the semester?

We offer as many makeup classes as there are seats available during each semester.  In addition, a week of additional make-up classes may be offered at the end of the semester. Please visit our Make Up Classes page to learn more.

Can I switch to a different class?

Requests for class changes must be initiated within the first three weeks of the semester. We are flexible based on seat availability.

What if I start classes after the semester begins?

Music Together® with Glenda welcomes families at any point during the semester! However, we do not prorate for classes missed due to late registration. Instead, families may makeup class(es) during the semester.

Can we eat in class?

Please feel comfortable to nurse or bottle-feed your child in class, but we ask that you not bring food or drink into classrooms. We can also provide an area to nurse privately if desired.

Will classes be cancelled in inclement weather?

We adhere with Oak Ridge School District and/or Knox County Public Schools in regard to weather cancellations. Should Oak Ridge Public Schools close due to inclement weather, classes at Music Together® with Glenda will be cancelled as well. Use your best judgment if Knox County Schools close and Oak Ridge Schools remain open. Text Glenda or check the top of the website and facebook page for announcements regarding weather cancellations. You'll also receive a text message if you opted in and/or email notification.

Can I bring a guest or an unregistered older sibling to class?

Music Together® classes may be in session when older children have a school holiday, and it is natural to want to bring them with you to class. All guests are welcome. Please prearrange with the teacher to ensure adequate space in the class.

Is it OK for more than one adult to come to class?

Yes, parents, grandparents, or caregivers are welcome to attend class at any time—no need to ask!

Why aren't there classes for specific age groups?

Classes with children of different ages have intellectual and social benefits for both younger and older children. In fact, it's the learning environment recommended by many early childhood researchers. Older children learn empathy and awareness of others, while developing leadership qualities and gaining self-confidence. Younger children learn by imitating the older ones and often show more complex behaviors earlier than usual. Even babies benefit by being in an environment that gives them lots of opportunities to observe the behavior of children of varying ages. Plus, it allows everyone—siblings, parents, grandparents, caregivers—to share in the musical experience together!

Are children with special needs welcome in class?

Because it integrates the mind, body, and emotions, music can transform the lives of all children. Children with special needs, including those on the autism spectrum or physical, cognitive, or neurological differences, are welcome in any of our classes. With our “accept-and-include” philosophy, understanding of developmentally appropriate practice and our respect for different learning styles, children with special needs often thrive in our music classes.  For more info, please see our flyer on this topic.

Do you offer gift certificates?

Gift certificates toward classes can be purchased at any time. They make fabulous baby shower, birthday, or holiday gifts. Purchase one here.