KIDS & MUSIC

First, contrary to popular myth, the ability to sing and to discriminate pitches is not dependent upon genetics or talent—but rather upon environment, exposure, and education. In school we do not reserve mathematics for a select few; we know it is important for all. The same can be said for music.

Second, there is ample evidence that a developmental window opens wide from the ages of 3 to 6. This is when musical concepts are absorbed in the most fundamental sense—in the body, in the muscles, and in the voice. What the body learns at this age, it is slow to forget.

There is little doubt that active participation in music stimulates development in many different areas of the brain and for all children, music is every bit as important as reading and writing.

Music has a strong connection to memory, events, and eras. It promotes a healthy lifestyle and mental mindset. Music provides an emotional release—especially singing, because it is so closely tied to speech—and allows children to express themselves with their voices in a healthy and safe manner.

Movement can increase focus and retention and supplies the mind with another way to remember. Light movement brings a sense of joy and play to what we do in the class—the engagement of the student to the material can be clearly seen in their body language and in their facial expressions. Almost all the songs taught in class have a movement or rhythmic component to them.

The short response is that music is for all. Music is part of a basic education. Our singing voice is our first instrument and musical pursuits provide nourishment for the whole person throughout our lifetime. Music is not just for the eager and dramatic performer who is instantly a superstar! The more introspective child may be as deeply moved by the process of making music as the child who constantly seeks an audience.

In Pre-K to Grade 1, via play-based activities, your child will learn musicianship skills, healthy vocal production, and around 40 short songs & games throughout the course of the year, in addition to holiday favourites and 3 ‘show ready’ songs, complete with choreography!

In Grade 2, we hone the young musician into a performer, emphasizing traditional choral skills, introducing the musical score, spending more time developing their musical ear and musical skills, still incorporating music and play to keep their focus and attention. They learn between 15-20 pieces that emphasize harmonies and part-singing, as well as 3 fully choreographed numbers for the final concert.

Regular attendance is the best way to reap the full benefits of the program, whether you can attend in person or are engaging with a live streamed class online. Missed classes mean missed content and for some children this can be a little overwhelming.

Because KIDS & MUSIC is a once-weekly program, some word review practice at home is useful. A few minutes a day is more productive than one longer session. This word review becomes even more important in term 2. Some parents report that their children are intrinsically motivated to spend time with the music in their binders because of the great kid appeal of the songs and of course—THE STICKERS. Also, all KIDS & MUSIC kids are encouraged to color their handouts.

Each level of KIDS & MUSIC has the opportunity to share their accomplishments twice in the year. Please note the dates and times – they are noted on the registration page, and you’ll receive a full calendar in the fall. It is an expectation that your child attend these presentations. Details will follow as those dates approach and we hope you are able to plan family holidays accordingly to allow your singer the chance to participate. 

The December presentation brings together both classes of each level within KIDS & MUSIC. The year-end presentation showcases all classes together so that everyone feels part of the bigger KIDS & MUSIC family. This latter presentation will be off-site.

Sturdy shoes, comfortable clothes, a bottle of water, a positive attitude, a smile, and a willingness to learn. A music binder is provided which children need to bring each week to regular class (binders may be left at home on presentation days).

Youth Singers’ entrance/admin area has limited seating. If you bring any younger, “vocal” siblings, we ask that you have quiet activities to keep them busy. Parents may also check on the availability of the boardroom as an alternative waiting area. For any families who do not stay on site during rehearsal, we need an emergency contact number and an update of any changes.

Yes! For the Pre-K, Kindergarten and Grade 1 programs, parents/guardians are encouraged to join each class for the last 10 minutes. Be prepared to join in! 

For the Grade 2 program, there will be one parent/guardian observation class in the fall, and one observation class in the spring. 

You can find schedules, updates, important links, music learning resources, and other details on TeamSnap. You’ll also get a weekly newsletter from Youth Singers, which is a great way to stay informed about what’s happening overall with the group.

Office hours are Monday through Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm all year (except holidays), and general inquiries can be made to yscadmin@youthsingers.org or by calling 403-234-9549.

There is not a specific volunteer requirement for KIDS & MUSIC families, but there are places where we ask for your help and many ways to get involved. We are always so impressed by how much parents are willing to help!

1. It is recommended that a parent of each singer signs up to be an Administrative Helper at least once in the year, to help with binder handouts and stickers and sit at the desk during the class.
2. We ask all families to contribute snacks for our Holiday and Year-End presentations.
3. Many volunteers will be required for our Year-End Presentation. Please note that all volunteers (regardless of their assigned tasks) will be able to enjoy all of the show.
4. There are other opportunities to volunteer, donate, and get involved with Youth Singers, and you’ll find out more about these throughout the year.

The majority of children move up automatically to the next level corresponding with their grade. If you or Ms. Kathy thinks it would be best for your child to return to the same program for an additional year or skip a year, there is flexibility to do so. By communicating openly, we are able to ensure the best outcome for your child so that music-making continues to be an important part of their life.

The KIDS & MUSIC program is under the larger umbrella of the Youth Singers of Calgary. The Grade 3 program, KIDAZZLE, is a training ground for the youngest performance division, KIDZXPRESS (Grade 4-6). KIDS & MUSIC provides a foundation on which to build. The passionate and highly skilled artistic teams of all the older divisions further your child’s pursuit of an enduring and lifelong musical education.