Music Together in Harmony - Frequently Asked Questions

Music Together is designed for children ages' birth through preschool. Music Together philosophy teaches that music ability is as much a basic life skill as walking and talking, and that all children can learn to sing in tune, keep a beat, and participate with pleasure and confidence in the music of their culture. Music Together classes nurture the child’s natural enthusiasm for music and movement as we sing, dance, chant, and play instruments in an informal setting that will enrich their musical environment and guide them towards a lifetime of music-making enjoyment.

Back to top

Why aren’t there separate classes for different age groups?

In the 1980s, Music Together pioneered the development of the mixed-age approach in early childhood music. Each class is aimed to create a musically rich, developmentally appropriate environment where the whole family can enjoy music and nurture skills at the right level for each child. Mixed-age classes also provide a rich learning environment because children of different ages thrive when they interact with each other: the babies are often fascinated by the older child, and the “big” children enjoy helping and sharing with the “little” ones. The Music Together approach is based on research from music education, early childhood development, and family relationships, as well as having 20 years experience in the field.

Back to top

What is the class size?

Class size varies depending on location. The maximum amount of children in a class is 15.

Back to top

Can I bring my un-registered older sibling to class?

Throughout the term, 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. Older siblings of registered students may visit occasionally provided the older sibling is HEALTHY and that the visit is prearranged. Visitation spots are available on a first come, first serve basis.

Back to top

When can I expect class confirmation?

Unless you hear otherwise, you will automatically be enrolled for your 1st preference. A confirmation email will be sent out before classes begin. However, if you need to make any changes or have any questions please do not hesitate to contact me.

Back to top

What if my child is sick or we miss a class during the term?

In the case of a fever, the child shoud be fever-free and/vomiting and diarrhoea free for 24hrs before resuming normal activites.

We like this BabyCenter link When your child is too sick for child care which has more in-depth guidelines. Please take the time to read it if you are unsure if your child is well enough to attend class.

Make up classes are subject to availability. You can schedule a makeup online here Make up a missed class.

*Make up classes can not be used to subsidise fees.*

Back to top

Can I switch to a different class?

Changes are made depending on class availability.

Back to top

What if I need to withdraw from class?

Families wishing to withdraw from class must do so before the start of term or before the first class they will be attending.

Please note that there will be a non refundable registration/materials fee.

Families are responsible for class attendance. Non-attendance does not constitute a withdrawal, and all tuition fees are forfeited if the office is not informed of your withdrawal. If circumstances necessitate withdrawal from class, please Contact Us.

Back to top

What if I start classes after the term begins?

Pro rata fees are offered throughout the term. Please visit our Registration and Fees page for more information.

Back to top

Can we eat and drink in class?

Please feel comfortable to nurse your child in class, but we ask that you not bring food or drink (other than formula or water) into classrooms.

Back to top

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

All caregivers are welcome to attend class. For classes in our Scarborough location please check with your teacher first, as the room is small.

Whole family music making in your home is extremely valuable to your child's musical development, and attending class occasionally helps the other family members to join in at home.

Back to top

As a parent, what is my role in class?

Enhance your child's experience in class by remembering to sing, sing, sing! Your active participation is the key to your children learning and growing musically. Support the creation of a music only environment while in class by not talking to your children or other adults during the 45 minutes. Since it is difficult for a young child to mask out adult conversation please wait to socialise till after class, and instead contribute to the creation of a musical environment for the children to absorb.

Try not to give verbal directions. It can be tough to restrain the impulse to give your child directives such as "Do what she is doing, hold your instrument this way” but children respond best by just seeing and hearing you doing (and enjoying) it yourself! A wandering toddler is fine, but if you want your child to come back to you, avoid calling to him from across the room. If necessary, redirect your child physically back to you or the circle. Of course watch out for your child’s safety, but mostly your job is to just relax, and have fun!

Back to top

How should we use the Music Together Materials?

Play your CD/App at home and in the car as frequently as possible, especially during the first few weeks of class. Make it available to your child to listen to while they are playing or before nap or bedtime. Use the songbook to help you remember the songs or to play along if you play an instrument. Try using the songbook at storytime instead of a regular book, and sing through the songs as you go along. Looking at the printed notes on the page will help children understand that music is something that can be read, like words. Familiarisation with notation will help them when they are more ready for formal music instruction, typically when they are school aged.

Back to top

What is the Family Music Zone ?

As a member of the global Music Together family, you have access to the Family Music Zone on the Music Together Worldwide website. Here, you'll be able to download your music, view a digital copy of your songbook, get new activities to try at home, and learn more about your child's music development.

To log in, you'll create an account using the code in your songbook. (This will be a separate account from the one you use to enroll for classes on our website.) Contact Us if you need help!

Back to top