Early Childhood Department
The early childhood department specializes in bringing developmentally appropriate music instruction to children from 4 to 9 years of age. Our department’s philosophy is to provide child-centered instruction while nurturing natural ability, curiosity, and a love of music. Families enrolled in these classes will explore the world of music and the world of the child together with the support and guidance of our experienced faculty.
Classes Offered
Stepping Tones
One 45-minute in-person class per week
For children in PreKindergarten (4 year olds entering Kindergarten in Fall 2024)
This class presents various activities to foster children’s independent musical development. Each week the students are invited to bring an item to class relating to that week’s theme; these items are then incorporated into the week’s musical experiences. Activities include songs, rhymes, and instrument play, all supporting the concepts of developing the singing voice and moving rhythmically to a beat. Children’s literature is a key component, and classes incorporate folk songs and repertoire from the United States and other cultures. Materials fee includes a collection of curriculum songs recorded by the Early Childhood faculty, an instrument kit with rhythm instruments, and additional projects and materials shipped to your home.
Tuition fee: $231 for 11 weeks (45-minute weekly classes)
Materials fee: $40 (includes personal music kit with rhythm instruments, music manipulatives, songbooks, curriculum songs recorded by the Early Childhood faculty)
Musical Gateways
One 45-minute in-person class per week
For children entering Kindergarten in Fall 2023
This class is for children who enjoy making music and would like to build their musicianship and instrumental skills before beginning traditional formal instruction. Through attention to the child’s singing voice, listening skills, and rhythmic development, this class provides opportunities for students to make music in a creative setting while developing entry-level musical concepts and skills necessary for future instrument study.
Tuition fee: $231 for 11 weeks (45-minute classes)
Materials fee: $50 (includes personal music kit with rhythm instruments, a set of diatonic resonator bells, music manipulatives, magnetic rhythm board, curriculum songs recorded by the Early Childhood faculty)
Musical Adventures
One 45-minute in-person class per week
For children entering first or second grade in Fall 2023
In Musical Adventures we study Music Around the World, and Music through Time. In our Fall and Winter sessions, we will take a fun trip around the globe to discover the folksongs and unique instruments of many different cultures. In the Spring session, we will also explore the instruments and major composers of Western music from Ancient times through our modern era.
Tuition fee: $231 for 11 weeks (45-minute classes)
Materials fee: $50 (includes personal music kit with rhythm instruments, music manipulatives, magnetic rhythm board, music books, and additional materials as needed)
Musical Discoveries
One 45-minute in-person class per week
For children in grades 2-3 who have completed two years in Westminster’s early childhood music program
Specifically designed for students who have completed both Musical Gateways and Musical Adventures, this is our most advanced group class, and will review and expand upon the music theory and musical skills introduced in previous early childhood classes. Beginning note reading is introduced through the playing of an instrument shipped directly to your home. The skills developed in this class make Music Discoveries a perfect complement to private study.
Tuition fee: $231 for 11 weeks (45-minute classes)
Materials fee: $50 (includes personal music kit with rhythm instruments, music manipulatives, magnetic rhythm board, music books, and additional materials as needed)
Session Dates
Fall session: 11 weeks - September 23rd through December 9th
Winter session: 11 weeks - January 13th through March 23rd
Spring session: 6 weeks - April 13th through May 18th