NEW LITTLE MUSIC SESSION! 25% off for Winter 2024

Starting January 5 2024, Little Music ‘s winter session will take place on Friday mornings at our beautiful Trinity Bellwoods location (a luminous art gallery/upper Montessori school).  Maximum 8 children (with grown-up) per class.

This winter’s session is being partially subsidized by Toronto Suzuki School’s scholarship fund, in appreciation of the incredible number of Little Music students who so smoothly flow into our piano program by age 3 or 4.  This means our 10-wk winter session is being offered at a 25% discount ($20 per class vs $26.50!).

Our classes sell out quickly due to their popularity and purposefully-small class size. Click here to register for winter’s special tuition pricing!  See you in the new year!

***Note: our 10:15AM class has sold out. Please contact us to be added to the waitlist if this had been your preferred class time.

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year….

September is our favourite. Fresh paper, sharpened pencils, feeling organized and excited…about our Little Music Fall session!!

Our small, calm group classes for age 0-3 are held in a light-filled Toronto art gallery with a Montessori school in the back, right across the street from Trinity Bellwoods park. Begin your child’s music education with an extra dose of culture in a welcoming and elevated educational environment, filled with our joyful singing and learning each Friday.

10-weeks of music-filled Fridays begins Sep 8, and runs until Nov 10 (class time 10AM – 10:45AM). You can register here with just a click, and if you are interested in an earlier time for your little one’s schedule, please send us a note to inquire! **UPDATE: registration is now closed.

By starting your child’s music education with Little Music, you are planting the seeds for successful Suzuki Method learning of any instrument, modeling your own joy of music, and demonstrating the importance of early learning.  See you in September!

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Registration for Fall Suzuki ECE happening soon! Get on the list!

Want first dibs on a spot for our small, calm group music classes for ages 0-3? Our beautiful Suzuki ECE program is true-blue music education for the littlest learners, based on pedagogy and backed by science. With just seven or eight families per class, it sells out quick.

In order to secure a spot, please sign up for our seasonal newsletter, which is a brief and uplifting little thing, and is sent out prior to general registration (which sometimes does not even happen, if newsletter recipients get all the spots first).

Our beautiful Trinity Bellwoods location (in a luminous art gallery/upper Montessori school) is the edu-cultural backdrop to our music classes. A joyful first-learning experience for your child, a supportive community (make new friends!), and a firm foundation for a lifelong love of music. Don’t miss out on our Fall session!

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Good morning, good morning!

Singing the “Good Morning” song is the way we begin every Little Music Suzuki ECE class. We have recently started ASL/signing it (instead of shaking hands), and thought you might like to learn how to do it too! Enjoy this short video below of your teacher Lenni, singing and signing.

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Aw shucks, we missed you this time around! Please sign up for our newsletter to get first dibs registering on our next session of small, calm Suzuki ECE group classes for ages 0-3. Our special and gentle classes fill up quickly. We hope to see you soon!

Click here to follow us on Instagram
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Join us for Little Music in-person group classes for Spring 2023!

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Toronto Suzuki School: free piano lessons for Ukrainian refugee families

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Small, calm group music classes for ages 0-3

Click the Suzuki Early Childhood link above to learn more about our beautiful early music learning program.

You can download Little Music recording “All Of Our Songs” for free!

Please sign up for our seasonal newsletter for first dibs on registration, updates on our program, and happy news. See you soon!

“The classes are warm, fun, and inclusive. We love Little Music!” – Julia G., mom to Ewan (5) and Ada (2)

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Suzuki early childhood – a very different kind of music program for babies and toddlers

Little Music’s Suzuki Early Childhood Education program (small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3) are based on a specific pedagogy backed by research. Developed in the early 1980s by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki with two Canadian Suzuki teachers Dorothy and Sharon Jones, “Suzuki ECE” or “SECE” has become a world-renowned pre-instrumental program recognized for its impact on not only babies and toddlers, but families as a whole.

Parents find support and strategies for helping their toddlers understand how to participate in a group-learning setting. Very young children build the foundation of successful instrument learning by developing focus, attention, cooperation, prosocial behaviour, listening and leading. Our classes focus on the progress of each child, wherever they are at, and class sizes are kept purposefully small so that we may do that effectively and with great care.

Little Music features only trained and qualified Suzuki Method teachers (in our case, trained by program originators Dorothy and Sharon Jones) with some of the highest qualifications in the country. Our standards of excellence in teaching and connection to our participating families is evidenced by the growing demand for our program – we are adding classes and west-end Toronto locations while remaining an independent/non-franchised music program for babies and toddlers. Little Music teachers are often our tiny students’ first “real” teachers, and it is a role we meet with great reverence, trust and honour.

Click the video below to behold the joy our classes bring to all participants (children and parents alike), click here to sign up for the seasonal newsletter, and here to register for our 10-week Spring session. We hope to meet you soon!

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Stay Tuned: Spring registration for our early
childhood music program is around the corner!

Little Music’s spring session of Suzuki Early Childhood program (small, calm group classes for children ages 0-3) will be in registration-mode by March 1!

Our unique and very popular classes always sell out. If you want first dibs on registration to make sure you get a spot (only 8 available per class), please sign up for our seasonal newsletter.

We have two Trinity Bellwoods locations: Artscape Youngplace and The Orchard Lyceum. Classes are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday mornings.  See you soon!

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little music: winter session

Thank you for visiting us! All classes for Little Music’s Winter 2020 session are now full.

Please click here to subscribe to our newsletter to get first dibs on upcoming registration for our small, calm Suzuki Early Childhood group music classes for children ages 0-3.

Faithful to the Suzuki Method, we run our gentle, real-deal music learning in two beautiful west-end locations (including a Queen West art gallery/private school) in Toronto.

See you in Spring!

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winter session starts this week!!!!

We are SO excited to begin our new year of classes, and welcoming so many new families to our growing Suzuki Early Childhood program: small, calm group classes for children age 0-3, held in two locations in Toronto’s beautiful west-end. Yay for winter!!!

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two spots left!

Just two spots remain in our Thursday and Friday morning Suzuki Early Childhood classes (small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3, based on pedagogy that results in real learning), in our beautiful Trinity Bellwoods location! Our 12-week Winter session begins Thursday January 9 2020 and the early morning class is the absolute best way to start your day.

Watch the short video below to get a feel for our classes and our very special Queen West location (it’s an art gallery!).

Please click here to nab your spot (won’t last long!) and start your child’s musical education journey in a memorable, joyful and meaningful way.

See you soon!

 

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merry, happy, joyful, sweet, musical…

All of those things, for 2020. Wishing you everything wonderful this holiday season and beyond, from Little Music!

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almost all sold out…

Our very popular Little Music Suzuki Method group classes for children ages 0-3 are quickly selling out with just a few spots left for our Winter session.

Our classes are almost always sold out by the time a session begins – in this case, Winter session starts January 9 2020.  Please click here to register for Winter to make sure you get your spot!

Also we are very touched (and greatly humbled) by the beautiful praise and tributes we have been receiving from parents (and grandparents! And treasured nannies!) who have participated in our small, calm classes with their children. Thank you to all of the amazing families we work with every week, you are all so incredibly special to us.

“I had no idea how deeply a ‘baby class’ could impact not only on my son, but me as well. This is by far the absolute best class we have taken. I feel supported and seen as a parent, dumbfounded by all he can now do that you taught him. It is like we are set up for the next step for him learning-wise and not just entertained ‘la-la-la’ for an hour. It is truly a remarkable class.” – Kelly K., mom to Devin 22 mos

 

balloons by our cherished friend Julia Guther.

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give talent.

The founding principle of the Suzuki Method is that every child can learn music. No one is exempt. Dr. Suzuki believed fervently that talent was not inborn, but something developed in a young child with the love and guidance of parents, excellent teachers, and supportive community.

This holiday, please consider gifting Little Music’s 12- week winter session to a beloved little one. Winter session begins in the new year, and registration for our popular classes is in high gear for both of our Trinity Bellwoods locations. Our classes make a beautiful, meaningful and purposeful gift.

For 12 weeks beginning January 9 2020, Little Music classes – which are kept purposefully small in order to effectively observe our students’ progress – will focus on repetition, joyful and positive interaction, musical skill-building, and prosocial behaviour/learning how to learn in a group. Now in our sixth year of helping to create successful Suzuki method students from the ground up, our calm and joyful Suzuki Method group music classes for children ages 0-3 are quickly selling out.

Please click here to register. There may be many lovingly wrapped presents under a tree or tucked into a stocking…but the gift of music education – the gift of talent – is something that a child will have with them always.

“the musical education of a child should begin nine months before the birth of its mother.”
– Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

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say hello to us at artscape fun fair!

On Wednesday December 11 3:30-5:30PM, we will set up our instruments at Artscape Youngplace (180 Shaw St) in studio 109 (where we teach on Saturdays). Some say hello to our teachers, have a juice box, try our instruments, and learn about our beautiful and unique Suzuki Method program that focuses on calm learning, small class size, and real early music education for children ages 0-3.

This event is hosted by our beloved friends Smart Cookie Club, who offer exceptional early learning programs for young children at Artscape.

Come on up to the first floor and turn right – follow the sound of our xylophone! See you there!

PS: if you want a spot in our small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3, please click here. Classes are quickly filling up for our Winter session that begins early January. Don’t miss your chance!

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register now for our winter classes!

Our small, calm group classes for children age 0-3 with grown-up (Suzuki Early Childhood Education) are selling out for our 12-week Winter session, that begins January 2020. Here’s a sweet and short video that shows highlights of Little Music’s weekly classes.

To avoid disappointment, please click here to view our locations and secure your spot to learn music and make real friends this winter.

And, please click here to join our newsletter list, for seasonal updates, gentle/happy news, and first dibs on registration for our highly unique and very popular Suzuki Method classes.

“Seriously, I can’t believe what is going on in this class! It is unbelievable to see not just my toddler but ALL of them learning and then able to do obviously advanced things with instruments, rhythm, keeping the beat etc. I love the social skills component as well, was so not expecting that!”
– Jenn M., mom to McKenzie (2 years old)

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coming soon…

Registration for Little Music’s upcoming Winter 2020 session will be underway soon. If you are on our newsletter list, you will get first notification of all our new classes and an opportunity to register first. If you’re not on our newsletter list…please click here!

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grateful (happy thanksgiving)

Thanks a lot,
Thanks for Sun in the sky.
Thanks a lot,
Thanks for clouds so high.

Thanks a lot,
Thanks for whispering wind.
Thanks a lot,
Thanks for the birds in the spring.

Thanks a lot,
Thanks for the moonlit night.
Thanks for the stars so bright.

Thanks a lot,
Thanks for the wondering me.
Thanks a lot,
Thanks for the way I feel.

Thanks for the animals,
Thanks for the land,
Thanks for the people everywhere.

Thanks a lot,
Thanks for all I’ve got.
Thanks for all I’ve got.
– Raffi

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Fall session has sold out.

All of our Suzuki Early Childhood classes for Little Music’s 12-week Fall session are now full.

If you would like to be put on the waitlist, please click here.

Please click here to join the Little Music newsletter list; recipients get first dibs on registration for our small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3, in Toronto’s west-end.

“If children hear fine music from the day of their birth and learn to play it, they develop sensitivity, discipline and endurance. They get a beautiful heart.” ~ Shinichi Suzuki

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Why you need a real piano for suzuki piano lessons.

In Little Music Suzuki Piano learning, we only accept students with real/acoustic pianos. Some parents who inquire about lessons initially may balk at this (the expense, the space, the commitment), and ask why. The concerns are understandable – we swear we are not just being snobby! – below are reasons that an electronic keyboard may work against a very young piano student:

– they do not develop necessary hand/finger strength to play a real piano, which affects hand position and a litany of ensuing posture issues.

– they do not develop a sense of proper touch since the electronic keyboard does so much for them.  Yep, even weighted keys – which really cannot compare to the action of a real piano when it comes to a brand new learner.

– they do not get a sense of themselves making their “own” sound, which is so important in Suzuki, a method that focuses on self-expression and playing from the heart.

– they do not develop an emotional connection to an organic instrument with its own character. Real pianos make vibrations, and sonically respond to a player’s touch. The emotional connection this creates is real when taught via Suzuki which focuses on playing beautifully.

An electronic keyboard is fine for advanced students who need something to practice on in a pinch (or professional/gigging musicians who need a stage piano), but not for young children who are just learning to play.  The focus of Suzuki is self-expression and beautiful playing, which can only truly be developed by having the real-deal instrument.

This does not mean go out and buy your four-year old a Bosendorfer! But it might mean going to a reputable piano store, and sourcing their used instruments (which are usually well-maintained, and include moving, a tuning and a warranty). You might also luck out on social media marketplaces or kijiji/craigslist.

A real piano in your home will bring joy and music to your family for years. You never know who will come over to play….perhaps you may reignite your own past piano learning, and take lessons yourself!

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Thursday mornings are great.

Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood group classes for ages 0-3 have almost all sold out for our 12-wk Fall session, save for a few spots in our Thursday 9AM class at the beautiful Orchard Lyceum location (Queen W at Crawford). Classes start next week, on September 19.
Make music with us, grab a coffee, play in the park, have a snack, take a nap. Sounds like a pretty sublime autumn morning to us.

Please click here to register for Thursday mornings.

Sign up here for our seasonal newsletter,

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New saturday class added!

Little Music’s waitlist for Saturday classes was so steep that we added another class
to our 12-week Fall session:
Saturdays Sep 21 – Dec 7
11AM – 11:45AM
Artscape  Youngplace – 180 Shaw Street
Please click here to register.

“Musical ability is not an inborn talent but an ability which can be developed. Any child who is properly trained can develop musical ability just as all children develop the ability to speak their mother tongue. The potential of every child is unlimited.” – Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

**UPDATE: the class sold out in just a couple of hours. If you wish to be put on the waitlist, please click the “contact” link above. Meanwhile, there are still a few spots left in Little Music Thursday classes but please do not wait to register!

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fall classes are filling up…

Interested in registering in our small, calm group classes for children ages 0-3? Suzuki Early Childhood Education focuses on actual music pedagogy, and is the best foundation for instrument learning in an environment that focuses on joy, observation, support and excellence.

Please don’t wait if you want a spot – only a few openings are left in our Thursday classes for our 12-wk Fall session beginning September 16 (at our beautiful new location the Orchard Lyceum at Queen West/Crawford).

Please click here to secure your spot.

 

“Character first, ability second.” – Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

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little music registration for fall is on now!

Our small, calm group classes for children age 0-3 with grown-up (Suzuki Early Childhood Education) are selling out for our 12-week Fall session. Here’s a sweet and short video that shows highlights of Little Music’s weekly classes.

To avoid disappointment, please click here to view our locations and secure your spot for Fall.

And, please click here to join our newsletter list, for seasonal updates, gentle/happy news, and first dibs on registration for our highly unique and very popular Suzuki Method classes.

“In all honesty, I was not expecting this kind of outcome from Stella’s music class. I feel so supported as a parent while watching her learn things I had no idea she was capable of learning. I have not come across any other program like this. Totally blown away and so excited to keep going.” – Michelle C., mom to Stella (23 mos)

 

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introducing: The orchard lyceum

The Orchard Lyceum is Little Music’s newest location!

Our very exciting and beautiful new space is at the corner of Queen Street West at Crawford Street. The Lyceum is an exclusive private school for children in upper elementary (grades 6, 7 and 8). Launching in September, the school also serves as an open working studio for professional visual artists to create, teach, and show.

Little Music student families will be taking their classes in the light-filled gallery of this immersive arts/education space. Our Suzuki principles and pedagogy will contribute to the evolved, next-level learning environment at the Lyceum, and as always remain the main focus of our calm, joyful classes for the youngest of learners.

Want to learn more about registering for our small, calm music classes for children ages 0-3 this Fall?
Please click here!

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Wholeness is the default

“We’re kind of teaching our kids that happiness is the default position — it’s rubbish. Wholeness is what we ought to be striving for and part of that is sadness, disappointment, frustration, failure; all of those things which make us who we are. Happiness and victory and fulfillment are nice little things that also happen to us, but they don’t teach us much… I’d like just for a year to have a moratorium on the word ‘happiness’ and to replace it with the word ‘wholeness.’ Ask yourself, ‘is this contributing to my wholeness?’ and if you’re having a bad day, it is.” -Hugh MacKay

illustration by our friend Julia Guther

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Early reading 101

Multiple studies have shown that children’s engagement in music learning is associated with enhancements in literacy-related language skills, comprehension and verbal memory. We’re all for books at Little Music (here is our list of excellent parent resources!); our Suzuki Early Childhood classes always end with a beloved storybook, followed by a large selection of board books put out for toddlers to choose and read themselves after their music class.

Our tips for establishing your child’s love of reading below:

1. Make reading together a daily habit. 
There are wonderful books for infants who have just arrived in the world!  Reading at the same time together every day from birth will establish a habit for everyone involved, and will inevitably evolve into a soothing, connected routine.

2. Fun fun fun!
Reading together to enjoy the story is the goal – it is not necessary to conduct a spelling or comprehension test at the end of a book  Pointing out little details in an illustration will pique interest as well as develop observation, memory and focusing skills.

3. Repetition.
Ever wonder why “peek-a-boo” never gets old, or “Goodnight Moon”? The answer is: little children adore repetition. It is not boring for a tiny child to feel like they know what is going to happen next. This is a major confidence-builder! So please do read “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” for that eighth time – and when you hear your little one rhyming off all the food the hungry caterpillar consumes on Saturday, you’ll know you’ve done some excellent parenting.

4. Expand your home library
There are many wonderful best-selling books for children. However, you do not necessarily have to follow age recommendations, nor shy away from greats like Shakespeare (who doesn’t love a sonnet before bed?!). Children’s books addressing the many issues in our world are very important – reading stories together that are true and that honour a marginalized group or person, our climate, the ocean – is a powerful way to cultivate awareness and establish openness and acceptance in a safe, loving family environment.

5. Canada!
It is great to learn about the country in which you live. Why not include books about beautiful Canada in your storytime routine, and learn a bit about Parliament Hill, Anne of Green Gables, Toronto, and a particular hockey sweater?

6. Books do not have to be expensive.
You can borrow books from your school library or friends – why not start a book swap in your neighbourhood, or with one of your favourite parent groups?  Second-hand stores often have a large selection of pre-loved children’s books in fine condition (wipe well with non-toxic cleaner such as diluted white vinegar).

7. What were your favourites when you were little?
There is no joy like sharing your favourite childhood story with your own little one, it is a gift to you both. If you have parents who kept things like that, lucky you! Hit them up with a request to do a deep-dive into your family keepsakes/rubbermaid bins to find your old favourites. Demonstrating your own love and enjoyment of reading will deeply impact and influence your child, so dive on in!

Happy reading!

Sign up here for our seasonal newsletter, full of nice things, promotions, early registration opportunities, and more.

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school’s (not) out!

Normally, Little Music’s Suzuki Early Childhood learning program aligns with the school year – but this year we are extending classes through summer.

Join us for our 7-week session of summer-school Saturdays!

The dates: July 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th, August 10th, 17th, and 24th.
The classes will take place at Artscape Youngplace (180 Shaw St), at 9AM and also 10AM.

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What Is the suzuki method?

As a Suzuki piano teacher and Suzuki Early Childhood Education teacher, I get asked this question a lot. The concepts and history of the Suzuki Method are rich with information, research and anecdotes, with many recommended readings (please see my Parent Resource page!). Here goes an informal explanation that is more than an elevator pitch and less than a Coles’ Notes version:

Dr. Shinichi Suzuki was a young Japanese violin pedagogue, living in Germany post-WW2. He created the Suzuki Method – studying music the way one would learn their native language with the same amount of ease – as a natural way of making children happy. He was a pioneer in early music education.

So, the Suzuki Method is based on learning music the same way one would learn their mother tongue. That is, in an immersive and encouraging environment, among a community of people (especially one’s parents) who have no doubt the child can and will learn, focusing on repetition,  listening and interacting musically on a daily basis.

In the Suzuki Method, the goal and focus of playing is developing the ear and playing with beautiful self-expression, which in the beginning years of study is concentrated on in lieu of reading music notes. (This concept mirrors the idea that young children learn to express themselves verbally before learning to read). Reading and theory study comes after a student is comfortable playing their instrument well.

The graded repertoire (each instrument has their own) is recorded, and the recording is listened to each day. The daily listening is an epistemic approach that allows the repertoire to become internalized, supporting eventual music reading and making it easier.

Parents accompany their children to all lessons, and daily practice (small chunks of time to start) is expected. Children work at their own rate of progress on the repertoire, which is the same in every country, and shared across the world. A Suzuki student from Australia, Japan or Venezuela, for instance, will know the same repertoire as a Suzuki student in Canada, and they should be able to play effortlessly together.

Children who study ensemble instruments play regularly in groups, and all Suzuki students perform recitals for their community. (I usually feature both my SECE and piano students at recital. It is very exciting for everyone to see a baby’s first performance, and mutually exciting for a baby to hear children performing on the piano).

By learning and sharing music in a joyous way, Suzuki teachers work with parents to elevate a child’s character, ability, and happiness. Suzuki teachers across the world are considered life-long learners, and are a deeply supportive community who strive to implement Dr. Suzuki’s principles in their teaching studios every day, for the benefit of their students and their students’ families.

Dr. Suzuki was convinced that talent is something that may be developed in anyone over time with thoughtfulness, care, the right environment and repetition. He taught tirelessly late into his life, basing himself at the Talent Education Research Institute in Matsumoto where students from all over the world were welcome to come and study with him. He died at age 99.

Does this help? Write to me with questions, and click here to be added to our seasonal newsletter to keep in touch!

“Teaching music is not my main purpose. I want to make good citizens. If children hear fine music from the day of their birth and learn to play it, they develop sensitivity, discipline and endurance. They get a beautiful heart.” – Dr. Shinichi Suzuki 1898 – 1998

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SPRING SESSION BEGINS THIS WEEK!

We are SO excited to meet our new Little Music friends this week!!
Spring is in the air, and we have many tiny new students who are embarking on their Suzuki Method journey with us in our small, calm Suzuki Early Childhood group classes. We deeply share in the joy of this and feel so honoured to be able to work with families in this way.

Our Artscape Youngplace classes are now sold out. Only two spots remain at our Orchard Montessori location. A prorated fee may be offered for anyone wishing to join as the weeks go by, up to four weeks in.

Please click here to sign up for our seasonal newsletter (first dibs on registration for upcoming sessions!) and here to drop us a line.

“Educate children rather than instruct them.” – Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

(artwork: our friend Julia Guther www.juliaguther.de)

our favourite Games at home.

As all of our Little Music families know, I have two young children. In the kindred spirit of motherhood and caregiving in this crazy world of ours, I wanted to share with you the two best/my very favourite games on rotation at our house, on this rainy last-day-of-March.

1)   Mummie At The Spa. Children massage mummie’s shoulders and feet, use nice-smelling oil. Paint mummie’s nails. Play with mummie’s hair. Put sliced cukes over mummie’s eyes.

2)   Shhhhh. This game is where mummie lies down and seems to be asleep. Children tiptoe around mummie and attempt to do many things, but without waking her up. Things like put a blanket on mummie. Blow her kisses. Put away their toys as quietly as possible. Perhaps play card game, without mummie hearing.

Have a great weekend…

(Want a spot in our Spring group classes for children ages 0-3? Only a few left…sign up here.)

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spring session is almost sold out…

If you are hoping for a spot in our small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3, please do not wait to register for our 10-wk Spring session (April 9 – June 11, 2019). The remaining available classes only have a few spots left in each.

Little Music is proud to be one of the only dedicated Suzuki Early Childhood programs in the city. Our unique program is based on real music education, and has been the subject of a global research initiative that studied the impact of early music learning on the brains of babies and toddlers. Our program produced amazing results (published in the Developmental Science and Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences) that were unique to Suzuki Early Childhood, and reflected key influences on early executive functions, musical understanding, and advanced prosocial behaviour.

While this all sounds extremely technical and pedagogical (it is)…our classes are designed to be FUN! Please enjoy the video below of our students and their grown-ups having a riot while learning in one of our Little Music classes.

Click here to register for Little Music’s 10-week session of Suzuki Early Childhood classes at either our west-end locations: Artscape Youngplace, or the Orchard Montessori.

See you soon!

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Spring! SIGN UP NOW FOR real MUSIC education,
ages 0-3

Our Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood Education (SECE) classes have just opened up for Spring registration! The 10-week Spring session runs from April to June 2019.  Space is extremely limited in our small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3 (with a grown-up) and our classes are already selling out.

Little Music focuses on Suzuki pedagogy, evidence-based findings on early music education stemming from a globally-recognized research initiative (Music & The Mind) that used our program as the test study. The results were astonishing.

Little Music classes are kept purposefully small (max. of 8) for teachers to observe and work with every student’s place of progress; parents journal and learn to notice their children’s growth in ability, skills and prosocial behaviours. Little Music teachers are life-long learners who are qualified through the Suzuki Association of the Americas, and trained to the highest standards of excellence associated with the Suzuki Method.  Please click here to register for Spring!

 

 

 

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want first dibs? Sign up for the newsletter!

Little Music sends out a quarterly newsletter for our Suzuki Early Childhood Education classes in Toronto’s west-end. Our classes for children ages 0-3 are kept purposefully small (max. 8 children) for optimal learning, observation, and to enjoy a calm environment. Our instruments are real, our teachers are real, and the joy is real.

Newsletter recipients are the first to be notified of upcoming registration for our seasonal sessions. Our newsletters are short and relevant, with information about our classes, important dates, and research findings/scholarly articles pertaining to early music learning’s impact on brain development in very young children. Newsletters also may feature special promos from our good friends like Mini Mioche and Advice from a Caterpillar.

Sign up here and see you soon!

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Suzuki early childhood : winter classes

All classes for Little Music’s winter session are now full.

Please click here if you’d like to be put on the waitlist; and here to subscribe to our newsletter – this way, you will get first dibs on upcoming registration for our small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3, in Toronto’s west-end locations.
Thank you!

“A child’s musical education should start nine month’s before the birth of its mother.”
– Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

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Merry Happy Joy and peace.

Wishing you all a beautiful holiday season. May 2019 be the most magical, musical year yet!

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bananas tuesday!!

Little Music’s registration for our upcoming 12-week Winter Session is happening. Classes are filling up and selling out. We have now added Tuesday mornings to our music-learning schedule (January 8 – April 2, 2019) and throughout the holiday season, one of our favourite days of the week will be available to you at a discount that is absolutely bananas! Join us for what we know will be one of your family’s favourite days of the week too!

…you had me at bananas, please sign us up!

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SIGN UP NOW FOR WINTER MUSIC CLASSES!

Our Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood Education classes have just opened up for Winter registration! The Winter session begins in January 2019 and runs through to the first week of April.

Please click here to register. Space is extremely limited in our small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3 (with a grown-up) and our classes sell out quickly!

“The proper time to influence the character of a child is about a hundred years before he is born.” – W.R. Inge

Little Music having fun learning finger numbers at Artscape Youngplace – Toronto, Canada

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 yes, Margaret Mead:

“Children must be taught how to think, not what to think.”

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Thank you

Happy Thanksgiving weekend everyone! Among our truest blessings that we are counting this holiday are all of the wonderful children and grown-ups in our Suzuki Method program, both past and present.

“Gratitude is what defines the happiness and humanity of the human being.” – Elie Weisel

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it’s on!!

Registration for Little Music’s Suzuki Early Childhood Winter 2019 session is ON!

Saturday morning classes have been added to our Artscape Youngplace location and are almost sold out – please do not wait to register if you’d like a spot! Our weekday classes at both Artscape and The Orchard Montessori locations  are also filling up fast.

As you can see, our small, calm group music classes for children age 0-3 sell out quickly. Please sign up for our newsletter so you get advance notice of registration, along with amazing ideas for early childhood learning activities you can do at home!

“I have taken Frida to several ‘baby programs’ since she was an infant but I have never seen her respond to a class this way – it is absolutely incredible and I love how she practices at home!” Michele, mom of Frida 2.5 years old

 

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it’s not too late to join in the fun…and save!

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Woo hoo, fun fair at Artscape: come say hi!

Please come visit Little Music this Saturday at Artscape Youngplace (180 Shaw St) from 9:30-11:30AM for the ultimate early learning activity fun fair, hosted by our good friends of Smart Cookie Club. Admission is free!
We will be there with our Little Music instruments to try and juice boxes to slurp…come say hi!

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register now for fall – a few spots left!

Little Music = real instruments, real teachers, real joy.
Register now for Suzuki Early Childhood Education: our small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3, in Toronto’s west-end locations Artscape Youngplace and The Orchard Montessori.  Our classes take place in the mornings and set everyone up for a happy, musical day. Classes are kept purposefully to a maximum of eight students (and their grown-up) – don’t miss out!

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Your Child will love watching our new little music video clip!

Here are some super-sweet scenes from Little Music’s Suzuki Early Childhood program! Our classes are kept purposefully small to encourage a calm, focused and fun learning environment. Please do enjoy watching this video with your own little one, who will love watching the Little Music students in action.  Click here to register for Fall!

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Little Music class locations for fall:

Where are our Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood classes held?

The Orchard Montessori School (375 Dovercourt Rd) Monday through Thursday, 9:15AM-10AM
Artscape Youngplace (180 Shaw St) Fridays 10AM-10:45AM

Registration for our Fall session (running from Sep 10 – Dec 7 2018) is now well underway and our small, calm group music classes for ages 0-3 are filling up. Please don’t miss out if you wish for a spot – click here to register!

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julie!

Little Music is thrilled to have a new Suzuki Early Childhood Education teacher onboard! Please click the”Learn more” section on the right, to learn more about our wonderful Julie.

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Want first dibs on Fall registration? Sign up for the little music newsletter!

Newsletter recipients are the first to know about registration for our small, calm group music classes for children ages 0-3 (and their grown-ups). Little Music’s teachers are qualified in Suzuki Early Childhood Education, the perfect springboard for your child’s eventual instrument learning. This is the program that will have your 3-year old ready to start Suzuki instrument lessons.

Please click here to sign up for our newsletter and get first dibs on registration for Fall, which will happen in July. Our classes sell out quickly!

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The infant is music itself

Little Music’s Spring session of Suzuki Early Childhood Education is underway in Toronto – all classes are sold out, but if you wish to be on the waitlist please send us a note.

“We grown-up people think that we appreciate music, but if we realized the sense that an infant has brought with it of appreciating sound and rhythm, we would never boast of knowing music. The infant is music itself.”
Hazrat Inayat Khan

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Notice for April 16: rain rain go away…

It is slushy and windy and rainy for our first day of the Spring session (today, April 16)…but that’s okay! Our classes will continue as scheduled in our space at Artscape Youngplace. We will be warm and dry.  See you soon!

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Character.

“We must remember that intelligence is not enough. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

“Character first; ability second.” – Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

(this video title indicates Little RIchard but it is Frank “Sugar Chile” Robinson.)

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a very suzuki method video clip

Watch this little girl – and her dad. The concepts in this video (repetition, parental involvement, encouragement, character-building, confidence, determination, striving for excellence, positive environment) are all representative of Suzuki learning. Enjoy what I am pretty sure will be your repeated watch for the day:

 

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Suzuki Method baby/toddler music classes for spring – register now!

Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood group music classes for babies and toddlers age 0-3 currently run in two west-end locations:

Artscape Youngplace (180 Shaw St)
• Mondays 10:30AM & 11:30AM from April 16 to June 25 2018 (10 weeks)
• Tuesdays 10:30AM from April 17 to June 26 2018 (10 weeks) – SOLD OUT

The Orchard Montessori School (375 Dovercourt Rd)
• Thursdays 9:15AM from April 19 to June 28, 2018 (10 weeks) – SOLD OUT

Register now for Spring session, which begins  April 16 through to June 28 ,2018. With a maximum of 8 children per class, please do not hesitate to register if you wish for a spot for you and your child.  Please click here to choose your class time and location.

Click here to catch a glimpse of our class in action, and learn why the Suzuki Method is such a beautiful and important way to begin a child’s music education.

Want first-dibs on registration, early childhood music news, and updates about Suzuki Method learning in Toronto?   Get Little Music’s quarterly newsletter!

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Some advice on explaining the news to children, courtesy of mr. rogers’ mom:

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Happy new year!

Little Music’s Suzuki Early Childhood Education classes begin January 6, 2018.  Cheers to a peaceful, happy, healthy year full of love, light and music!

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Happy…

Little Music wishes you a most peaceful and wonderful holiday season…
see you in 2018!

 

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registration for winter 2018 is happening now!

Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood group music classes for children age 0-3 currently run in two west-end locations:

The Orchard Montessori School (375 Dovercourt Rd) Thursdays 9:15AM (12 weeks)

Artscape Youngplace (180 Shaw St) Saturdays 9AM or 10AM (10 weeks) 

Winter session begins with weekly classes from January 6 through to April 5 2017. With a maximum of 8 children per class, please do not hesitate to register if you wish for a spot for you and your child.  Please click here to choose your class time and location.

Click here to catch a glimpse of our class in action, and learn why the Suzuki Method is such a beautiful and important way to begin a child’s music education.

Want first-dibs on registration, early childhood music news, and updates about Suzuki Method learning in Toronto?   Get Little Music’s quarterly newsletter!

 

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listen to this:  What is Suzuki Early Childhood Education?

A wonderful podcast, featuring an interview with my inspiring teacher-trainer Dorothy Jones – who was appointed by Shinichi Suzuki in the 80s to create a Suzuki Method program for babies, and founded the world teacher training centre in London Ontario.  If you’re wondering how and when you should begin your baby’s musical education, please listen to Dorothy Jones.

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lovely quote for the day

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Montessori and Suzuki

Maria Montessori is one of the most famous educators to divine and validate the learning processes and extraordinary capabilities of young children.  Coincidentally, Dr. Montessori and Dr. Suzuki share many ideas around the optimal ways for children to learn if they are led by caring adults who observe and guide them in a positive environment.

The Montessori classroom supports and nurtures every child in their natural capacity to persevere, collaborate, overcome obstacles, become independent, problem solve, and achieve peace in their own environment.  Dr. Suzuki created a music method in which children learn to play their instruments the way they learn language:  in an immersive environment, with faith and encouragement from their parents and community, and via repetition.  Suzuki’s ultimate goal was for children to achieve artistry, beauty, self-expression and joy.  On the journey to this achievement, children ultimately work with perseverance, collaboration, independence – educational attributes that tie back to Montessori principles.  Both pedagogues approached early childhood education with a deep respect for the individual progress of each young learner.

“Early childhood education is the key to the betterment of society.” – Maria Montessori

“It is in our power to educate all the children of the world to become a little better as people, a little happier.”  – Shinichi Suzuki

Click here to catch a glimpse of Little Music’s Suzuki Early Childhood baby and toddler music class in action, and learn why the Suzuki Method is such a beautiful and important way to begin a child’s musical education.

Want first-dibs on registration, early childhood music news, and updates about Suzuki Method learning in Toronto?   Get Little Music’s quarterly newsletter!

* Many inquiries come in re: Saturday classes, which are typically available in Winter only, due to teacher availability.  If something changes, newsletter recipients will be the first to know.

 

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summertime . . . and the living is easy

Summer is the sweetest time…little bare feet in the wading pool at a downtown park, freckles under cute sun hats, tummies sticking out of bathing suits, afternoons reading stories under the leafy trees and munching watermelon from a farmer’s market…Little Music wishes you and your dear children the happiest of summers, and I look forward to seeing you in September!

Registration happens soon for Fall – please sign up for the newsletter to get first dibs on securing your spot in Little Music’s Suzuki Early Childhood Education group music classes.

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happy mother’s day.

 

 

Parents are an utterly integral part of Suzuki Method learning.  In both my Early Childhood and piano lessons I see loving, devoted and dedicated parents every week.  It is uplifting, heartwarming and inspiring – Happy Mother’s Day from Little Music to all of you!

 

 

 

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register now for spring suzuki early childhood education classes!

** PLEASE NOTE all classes for Spring have now sold out.  Please send a note if you would like to be placed on the waitlist.  Thank you! **

Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood group music classes for children age 0-3 currently run in two west-end locations:

Orchard Montessori (375 Dovercourt Rd) Thursdays 9AM
– sold out

Artscape Youngplace (180 Shaw St) Mondays & Tuesdays 10:30AM.*
– sold out

Spring session begins with weekly classes from April 24 to June 29 2017. With a maximum of 7 children per class, please do not hesitate to register if you wish for a spot for you and your child.  Please click here to choose your class time and location.

Click here to catch a glimpse of our class in action, and learn why the Suzuki Method is such a beautiful and important way to begin a child’s music education.

Want first-dibs on registration, early childhood music news, and updates about Suzuki Method learning in Toronto?   Get Little Music’s quarterly newsletter!

* Many inquiries come in re: Saturday classes, which are typically available in Winter only, due to teacher availability.  If something changes, newsletter recipients will be the first to know.

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Got the newsletter?

Registration is coming up soon for Little Music’s Suzuki Early Childhood Education Spring session in Toronto.  If you want first dibs on registering for our small classes – as well as early childhood music news, research findings and learning more about the Suzuki Method – please sign up!  The newsletter only comes quarterly, we promise not to bombard your inbox.

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Joan Didion gives the best advice.

“I am not telling you to make the world better because I don’t think progress is necessarily part of the package. I’m just telling you to live in it. Not just to endure it, not just to suffer it, not to just pass through it, but to live in it. To look at it. To try to get the picture. To live recklessly. To take chances. To make your own work and take pride in it. To seize the moment. And if you should ask me why you should bother to do that, I could tell you that the grave’s a fine and private place, but none I think do there embrace. Nor do they sing there, or write, or argue, or see the tidal bore on the Amazon, or touch their children. And that’s what there is to do and get it while you can and good luck at it.”

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On Being a Suzuki Parent

As well as a dedicated Suzuki teacher, I am also the parent of two young children.  My daughter is 7 and studies piano (both with myself and another Suzuki piano teacher) and my son, 4, is a Suzuki cello student.

Parent education in Suzuki is so essential.  It would be wildly unfair to welcome a parent into a Suzuki studio and not prepare them for the ups and downs of daily instrument practice with a young child.

The amazing teacher Teri Einfeldt wrote the quintessential tip sheet for Suzuki parents, and I wanted to share with you here – it’s so on point. Enjoy.

Important Ideas to Remember in Your Role as a Suzuki Parent

by Teri Einfeldt

1. How it is to be done
2. How many times it is to be done with what outcome
3. The results to look for that match your teacher’s concept of excellence.

• Communication with your teacher is imperative.
  If you feel uncomfortable or troubled by anything that is happening along your Suzuki journey please take the time to discuss it with your teacher. Often times discussing something when it first starts to bother you will bring a more satisfactory resolution to the problem. It is always better to discuss something about your child with the teacher when the child is not present.
• Never compare your child to someone else.
  We are working towards bringing out the best in each child, and having them work towards reaching their own fullest potential. This is one of the least motivating things you can do to your child and has a deep-seated lasting affect.
• Do only what the teacher asks. Do not go ahead.
  There is always a reason your teacher does not move ahead. We are more focused on teaching your child to play her chosen instrument well, than what piece she is playing. It is how well she plays the instrument that will be most fulfilling, as she becomes a member of a small and larger ensemble. This in turn will instill an even greater sense of self-confidence within each child.
• Enjoy each step of the journey. Do not focus on the destination.
  Small successes should be celebrated at every turn. All the small steps lead to accomplishment of the larger goal.Original article from American Suzuki Journal (issue 40.2)https://suzukiassociation.org

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Merry Holidays from Little Music !

 

 

Classes will resume January 9, 2017.
Wishing you all a beautiful holiday season and a healthy, happy New Year!

 

 

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Register Now for Little Music Winter 2017!

Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood group music classes for children age 0-3 currently run in two wonderful, west-end locations:

The Orchard Montessori (375 Dovercourt Road) on Thursdays 9AM (sold out)
 
Artscape Youngplace (180 Shaw St) on Tuesdays 10:30AM (sold out), Saturdays 9AM or 10AM (sold out).
** NEW CLASS ADDED:  Mondays 10:30AM

Winter session begins with weekly classes from January to April 2017. With a maximum of 7 children per class, space is extremely limited; please do not hesitate to register if you wish for a spot for you and your child.  Please click here to choose your class time and location.

Click here to watch a recent 4-minute film made about Little Music Suzuki Method classes, and learn why the Suzuki Method is such a beautiful and important way to begin a child’s music education.

Want first-dibs on registration, early childhood music news, and updates about Suzuki Method learning in Toronto?   Get Little Music’s quarterly newsletter!

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shinichi suzuki quote of the day:

“Teaching music is not my main purpose. I want to make good citizens. If children hear fine music from the day of their birth and learn to play it, they develop sensitivity, discipline and endurance. They get a beautiful heart.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Just a few spots left for Fall …

Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood group music classes for children age 0-3 has two locations:  The Orchard Montessori (375 Dovercourt Road) and Artscape Youngplace (180 Shaw St).  There are only a few spots left for the upcoming 12-week Fall session!  If you’d like to register your child, please click here to choose your class and location.

Click here to watch the recent short film made about Little Music Suzuki Method classes, and see the amazing little students in action.

 

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Fall registration happening Now!  oh, also we made a short film.

Please do not wait if you wish to register for Little Music Suzuki Early Childhood group music classes for children age 0-3.  At just 7 students per class, availability is very limited for the 12-week Fall session, beginning September 21, 2016 at Artscape Youngplace on Wednesdays, and The Orchard Montessori on Thursdays.  Please click here to view class times, get more info, and complete the easy online registration.

Oh, also we worked with Scout Media to make a short film about Little Music’s Suzuki Early Childhood Education program.  It will probably be the nicest four minutes you will watch online today.  Enjoy!

https://youtube.com/watch?v=OOVPLC9eVEA%3Flist%3DPLcE-6n7tqBrRDk9vX6esCmPcZHGM4y5_wframeborder%3D0allowfullscreen

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NEW IDEA : PRACTICE CHAINS!

Dr. Suzuki was always very fond of thinking of other ways to achieve desirable outcomes and would often exclaim “new idea!” to his students and their parents, inspiring them to always question how to make music more beautiful, or implement a strategy in a way that sounded fun and exciting.

A “new idea” in the Little Music Suzuki piano studio is our beautiful practice chains.  Made at home from paper scraps from the Japanese Paper Place in Toronto, every time a student practices the piano they get to staple a new link on their chain (or a grown-up helps – children love to staple).  I do believe Little Music might be personally responsible for the sale of several bags of beautiful Japanese paper scraps over the past few months!

Behold my dear piano student Lady D., 6 years old, who has been steadily practicing with her wonderfully dedicated mom…and they have the practice chain to prove it!  Lady D’s goal is for her chain to go right around the perimeter of her room.  Look at the joy and pride in her face. Hooray!

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early bird fall registration for suzuki early childhood education!

Since Little Music group music classes are purposefully kept very small, the spaces get snapped up quickly (please see worm in illustration).  Good for you for being the early bird!

Easily register online for Fall, by clicking here. 

For returning families:  please note new seasonal session format of 12 weeks, instead of 10.

Want first dibs on Little Music registration, and research findings on early music education in Canada and across the globe? Then please sign up for Little Music’s quarterly newsletter! 

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hooray!  Summer REGISTRATION IS ON FOR SUZUKI EARLY CHILDHOOD GROUP MUSIC CLASSES, Age 0-3. *UPDATE:  sold out.

Registration will begin soon for September music classes –
please sign up for Little Music’s newsletter to get first dibs on registration!  

BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD:
increased social + motor skills, confidence + self-awareness • advanced memory development • heightened focus + memory skills • prepares child for future instrument learning • fun, familiar music that fosters bonding with grown-up • weekly individual attention to the progress of even the littlest of learners

Suzuki Early Childhood Education has been a focus of neurocognitive study by the Music & The Mind research lab at McMaster University.  Research has shown that babies who take this class smile more, are more cooperative and calm, have stronger language development and social skills, and show a significantly advanced understanding of musical concepts, tone and dynamics.

ARTSCAPE YOUNGPLACE, WEDNESDAYS JUNE 1 – JULY 20, 2016
180 Shaw Street, lower level, SKETCH Multi-Studio B – SOLD OUT

“Beautiful tone, beautiful heart.”
– Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

 

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ability develops at age zero.

Dr. Shinichi Suzuki believed that ability develops at age…zero.  He even wrote a book of the same title.  What exactly did he mean,”age zero?”  How can actual ability develop at that age?

Research tells us that for the first few months of life, a baby assimilates the world in patterns, rhythm and cadence.  This applies to how a young baby recognizes its parents:  the pattern of mom and dad’s faces, the cadence and rhythm of their voices and language.  Babies instinctively measure how those faces and voices respond to fulfill needs, and to elicit joy.  Besides releasing the Oxytocin hormone and skin-to-skin contact, this is one of the ways babies connect to their families, and understand their place in the world.

Guess what else is created in patterns, rhythms and cadence?  Yup.  Music.

When early music education is introduced to a young baby, how can music not play an essential part in their understanding of the world around them as they grow into children, young adults, and finally grown-ups?

In our Suzuki Early Childhood classes, we emphasize among other things parent-child connection, an encouraging environment,  and very importantly the repetition of specific repertoire in order to gauge the progress – however incremental or exponential – of our tiny students.

Studies have proven that babies can differentiate rhythmic patterns as early as 24 hours old; that a piece of music played repeatedly for a baby in utero will elicit a physical response from that baby at its moment of birth when that same piece of music is played in the delivery room; that an 8 week old baby can tell the difference between a major and a minor chord sound.

If I were to leave it only to research studies and science journal findings that point to the proven neurological and early skill-building benefits of Suzuki Early Childhood Education, I would be utterly fascinated.  However, what I see evidenced in our classes each week as a teacher is what makes the principals of Suzuki Early Childhood music nothing short of astonishing.  Is it fair to say that the beginning of ability is how we as people recognize, differentiate, and decide?  If so, then I think Dr. Suzuki has made his point.

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Thursday March 24 2016 – Classes cancelled

Due to Environment Canada’s ice storm warning for Toronto and surrounding area, classes this morning at The Orchard Montessori are cancelled.  See you all next week.

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HooRAY!  SPRING REGISTRATION IS ON FOR SUZUKI EARLY CHILDHOOD GROUP MUSIC CLASSES, Age 0-3!

Click here to register!

BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD:
increased social + motor skills, confidence + self-awareness • advanced memory development • heightened focus + memory skills • prepares child for future instrument learning • fun, familiar music that fosters bonding with grown-up • weekly individual attention to the progress of even the littlest of learners

Suzuki Early Childhood Education has been a focus of neurocognitive study by the Music & The Mind research lab at McMaster University.  Research has shown that babies who take these classes smile more, are more cooperative and calm, have stronger language development and social skills, and show a significantly advanced understanding of musical concepts, tone and dynamics.

SPRING TERM STARTS MARCH 23, 2016 at the following locations and class times:

ARTSCAPE YOUNGPLACE, WEDNESDAYS 9AM & 10AM
180 Shaw Street ste 202, in The Bellwoods Academy of Music

THE ORCHARD MONTESSORI SCHOOL, THURSDAYS 9AM & 10AM
375 Dovercourt Road

Click here to secure your spot in Little Music’s Spring session!  Space is highly limited.

Want to receive Little Music’s newsletter?  It’s a brief informative quarterly, with exclusive registration details, information on early music learning, the Suzuki piano studio, and more.

“Music exists for the purpose of growing an admirable heart.”
– Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

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Rain Rain, Go Away . . .

Behold, little Lady W. who is 20 mos old and has been a student at Little Music in the Suzuki Early Childhood program since 12 months of age, playing our class song “Rain Rain Go Away” on the xylophone.

There are a number of things happening here.  First, look at her hand position on the mallets, which is perfect.  Notice also that she is playing very delicately, attempting (and succeeding!) to “get the most beautiful sound”, which is a key element of learning in the Suzuki Method and is a focus in our classes at Little Music.  Lady W. is not banging on the xylophone.

Lady W. is also singing “Rain Rain” as tonally as possible (children her age cannot sing “in tune” as their vocal chords are not developed enough to do so), singing higher and lower tones in accordance with the song’s melody.  Notice that she is playing and singing at the same time, which is an enormous neurological accomplishment for someone her age.  At the 0:20 mark, Lady W. starts moving her hands in tandem up and down the xylophone, recalling and attempting to implement the physical movement of the minor third and the sound of higher and lower, as we routinely practice in class.

Finally, notice Lady W.’s focus.  She plays the whole song.  She concentrates and is listening to herself the whole time, self-evaluating on the highest level that she is able to at this age – which is considerable.   Lady W. is already learning the value of practicing the songs she learns in class on her instrument at home: the beginning of discipline, the beginning of talent.

Thank you to Lady W.’s mother for allowing the sharing of this video, and for being responsible for creating such an amazing and encouraging environment for her wonderful child.

“Maybe it is music that will save the world, after all..” – Pablo Casals

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Merry Holidays!

 

There will be no Little Music classes
from December 20, 2015 through to January 4, 2016.
See you all in 2016 for a most magical, musical new year!

“Anything you think of doing, however insignificant, should be done immediately. Spur yourself on and carry it through without becoming discouraged. If this becomes an ingrained habit, things you thought were impossible will become possible, and closed doors will open, as you will discover in many ways.”  – Shinichi Suzuki

 

 

 

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$10 from the Tempered Room if you sign up for Parkdale Prana Room Class by November 30…

Register your child for Little Music Suzuki Method group music classes (ages 0-3) 10-wk Winter session at Parkdale Prana Room by Monday November 30, and receive a $10 gift card to The Tempered Room which is right across the street…and has the best croissants according to Toronto Life.  Only three spaces left in the class!

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And Now…

Two babies dressed as grannies.  Because babies. Dressed. As. Grannies.

“Children learn to smile from their parents.” – Shi’nichi Suzuki

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winter REGISTRATION IS ON FOR SUZUKI EARLY CHILDHOOD GROUP MUSIC CLASSES, Age 0-3.

BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD:
increased social + motor skills, confidence + self-awareness • advanced memory development • heightened focus + memory skills • prepares child for future instrument learning • fun, familiar music that fosters bonding with grown-up • weekly individual attention to the progress of even the littlest of learners

Suzuki Early Childhood Education has been a focus of study by the Music & The Mind research lab at McMaster University.  Babies who take these classes smile more, are more cooperative and calm, have stronger language development and social skills, and an advanced grasp on musical tone and dynamics.

WINTER TERM STARTS DECEMBER 2, 2015 at various locations and class times:

THE PARKDALE PRANA ROOM, WEDNESDAYS 10AM – 1 spot left
1273 Queen Street West

THE ORCHARD MONTESSORI SCHOOL, THURSDAYS 9AM & 10AM – 1 spot left
375 Dovercourt Road

ARTSCAPE YOUNGPLACE, SATURDAYS 9AM & 10AM  – Sold Out
180 Shaw Street ste 202, in The Bellwoods Academy of Music

Click here to secure your spot in Little Music’s Winter session.  Space is highly limited.

“Character first, ability second.”
– Shin-ichi Suzuki

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Whoa, newsletter!

Want to be on the list to receive Little Music’s upcoming quarterly newsletter? You’ll be first-to-know about seasonal class registration (they sell out quickly), promos, and the latest on research findings on the benefits of early music learning.   Plus have access to Little Music’s new YouTube channel, featuring interviews with Early Childhood experts and readings of our favourite stories from class.  Please click here, and consider yourself signed up!

 

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FALL REGISTRATION IS ON FOR SUZUKI EARLY CHILDHOOD GROUP MUSIC CLASSES, Age 0-3!

BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD:
increased social + motor skills, confidence + self-awareness • advanced memory development • heightened focus + memory skills • prepares child for future instrument learning • fun, familiar music that fosters bonding with grown-up • weekly individual attention to the progress of even the littlest of learners

Suzuki Early Childhood Education has been a focus of study by the Music & The Mind research lab at McMaster University.  Babies who take these classes smile more, are more cooperative and calm, have stronger language development and social skills, and an advanced grasp on musical tone and dynamics.

FALL TERM STARTS SEPTEMBER 8, 2015 at various locations and class times:

THE PARKDALE PRANA ROOM
1273 Queen Street West
(sold out)

ARTSCAPE YOUNGPLACE
180 Shaw Street ste 202, in The Bellwoods Academy of Music
(sold out)

THE ORCHARD MONTESSORI SCHOOL
375 Dovercourt Road
(sold out)

Click here to secure your spot in the Fall 2015 session.  Space is highly limited.

“The education of a child should not start nine months before birth,
but nine months before the birth of the mother.”
– Shin-ichi Suzuki

 

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Parent info session for suzuki piano lessons

Wednesday June 17, 2015
6:30 – 7:30PM
Little Music Piano Studio (located in Parkdale).

If you would like to learn more about how the Suzuki Method will benefit your family and positively impact your child’s learning, character, self-esteem, confidence, and piano-playing ability then please send a message via the “Contact” form to RSVP and get location details.  This meeting is in preparation for students who will start piano lessons in September 2015.

Please note two things:  this is a meeting solely for parents, and is information only.  There is no pressure to sign up for lessons nor register a spot in the piano studio at the meeting.

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First-ever recital

I invited one of my little Suzuki early childhood students do a special performance at my piano studio’s spring recital.  Here she is, about to showcase her glockenspiel chops and demonstrate our weekly song “Up & Down”!  Everyone in the audience put their hands in the air for ascending, and down into their laps for the descent.  It was so fun, and so wonderful to see all my piano students and their families clapping wildly for this little munchkin at her first-ever recital.   Everyone was beaming.

(photo by Marina Dempster)

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We were excited to be contacted by
luminato festival…

…and asked to hold a Little Music Suzuki Method Early Childhood class in the Community Playground, taking place during the festival!

When:  Saturday June 20, 2016,
Time:   3:00PM – 4:00PM
Where:  David Pecaut Square (King & University, at St Andrew subway)
Cost:  $10 per child aged 0 – 3 and their grown-up(s)

Sign up for this special event by sending an email to hello@littlemusic.ca with the subject line “I want to play at Luminato!”  Maximum 10 children…please don’t wait to sign up!

 

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Summer registration is on !

SUZUKI METHOD
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Group Music Classes for Children Ages 0-3

BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD
increased social + motor skills, confidence + self-awareness • advanced memory development • heightened focus + memory skills • prepares child for future instrument learning • fun, familiar music that fosters bonding with grown-up • weekly individual attention to the progress of even the littlest of learners

SUMMER TERM STARTS JUNE 3, 2015 at:
THE PARKDALE PRANA ROOM
1273 Queen Street West
Wednesdays at 9AM – just a few spaces left
Wednesdays at 10AM – SOLD OUT

Click here to secure your spot in the Summer 2015 session.  Space is limited so please do not wait if you are interested in getting your little one started on their musical journey.

And…A sweet little summer treat!

Register for your Little Music Early Childhood Summer Term by May 18, and receive
a $10 gift card to The Tempered Room (best croissants on Queen St. W)!

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A springtime deal … SUZUKI METHOD EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION at artscape youngplace (Shaw).

Our Spring Session is underway!  With 8 classes left (wrapping up June 2), there are four available spaces at Little Music’s Artscape Youngplace Shaw’s location, on Tuesdays at 6:15PM (ideal for those with little ones in daycare!).

Little Music is offering a pro-rate of $160 for the remaining classes… plus an extra $10 off because the sun is shining and the crocuses popped out of the ground.  So there are eight Suzuki baby/toddler group music classes for $150. Please click here

Don’t forget … there are only four spaces available.

And, Happy Spring!

– – – SOLD OUT! Would you like to be put on the Waiting List? Click here to be placed in priority order. New classes are being added and it will not take too long for you to start your Suzuki journey with us!

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SUZUKI METHOD EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

My little 15-mos old student C., rocking the shaker dance with me in my Suzuki Early Childhood group music class. An exercise in trust, confidence, self-expression and rhythm-keeping…and he nails it on all fronts. Spring registration on now, only a few spots left in my classes!  Please click here to register your little learner for one of my Suzuki group music classes (ages 0-3).  Classes are filling up, and Little Music’s Spring session starts next week…

“Lenni’s confidence & enthusiasm are utterly contagious—my toddler constantly surprised me in her classes. Highlight of our week!” – C.’s mom

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SPRING registration is happening now!

SUZUKI METHOD
EARLY CHILDHOOD
EDUCATION

Group Music Classes for Children Ages 0-3

BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD
increased social + motor skills, confidence + self-awareness • advanced memory development • heightened focus + memory skills • prepares child for future instrument learning • fun, familiar music that fosters bonding with grown-up • weekly individual attention to the progress of even the littlest of learners

Registration is happening NOW, with new classes added for Spring at Artscape Youngplace.  Only 7 children per class…click here to make sure you and your little one get a spot.

“Mommy, are we going to Lenni’s music party today?!” – Frances, age 3

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WHEN A STUDENT COMPLETES THEIR RIGHT HAND STUDIES IN PIANO BOOK ONE…

…They receive a “bouquet” made for them by all the other students (and their parents) in my studio.

“To make a resolution and act accordingly is to live with hope. There may be difficulties and hardships, but not disappointment or despair if you follow the path steadily. Do not hurry. This is a fundamental rule. If you hurry and collapse or tumble down, nothing is achieved. DO not rest in your efforts; this is another fundamental rule. Without stopping, without haste, carefully taking a step at a time forward will surely get you there.”
― Shi’nichi Suzuki, Nurtured by Love

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NEW CLASS ADDED!

SUZUKI METHOD
EARLY CHILDHOOD
EDUCATION

Group Music Classes for Children Ages 0-3

BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD
increased social + motor skills, confidence + self-awareness • advanced memory development • heightened focus + memory skills • prepares child for future instrument learning • fun, familiar music that fosters bonding with grown-up • weekly individual attention to the progress of even the littlest of learners

SECOND CLASS ADDED TO WINTER TERM!

SATURDAY JANUARY 17 to SATURDAY MARCH 7, 2015 at:
LITTLE MUSIC STUDIO
Parkdale location

– – – SOLD OUT! Would you like to be put on the Waiting List? Click here to be placed in priority order. New classes are being added and it will not take too long for you to start your Suzuki journey with us!

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SUZUKI METHOD
EARLY CHILDHOOD
EDUCATION

Group Music Classes for Children Ages 0-3

BENEFITS FOR YOUR CHILD
increased social + motor skills, confidence + self-awareness • advanced memory development • heightened focus + memory skills • prepares child for future instrument learning • fun, familiar music that fosters bonding with grown-up • weekly individual attention to the progress of even the littlest of learners

WINTER TERM STARTS JANUARY 9, 2015 at:
THE PARKDALE PRANA ROOM
1273 Queen Street West

Registration happening online now! Click here to secure your spot in our Winter 2015 Term.

– – – SOLD OUT! Would you like to be put on the Waiting List? Click here to be placed in priority order. New classes are being added and it will not take too long for you to start your Suzuki journey with us!