Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I expect from class?
- Why aren’t there separate classes for different age groups?
- What is the class size?
- Can I bring my un-registered older sibling to class?
- When can I expect class confirmation?
- How do I schedule a makeup up class?
- Can I switch to a different class?
- Can I get a refund if I need to withdraw from class?
- What if I start classes after the semester begins?
- Can we eat in class?
- Is it OK for more than one adult to come to class?
- As a parent, what is my role in class?
- How should we use the Music Together Materials?
- Where can I buy some of the instruments we have in class?
- May I bring a camera to class?
- Do you offer gift certificates?
- Do you offer discounts?
What can I expect from class?
Music Together is designed for children ages birth through age 4. At Music Together we believe 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 her musical environment and guide her towards a lifetime of music-making enjoyment.
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. In each class we strive to create a musically rich, developmentally appropriate environment where the whole family can enjoy music and nurture skills at the level right 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. This approach is based on research from music education, early childhood development, and family relationships, as well as our 20 years experience in the field.
What is the class size?
Each class has 8- 12 registered children plus their primary caregiver(s).
Due to the economics of holding a class, if a class does not have at least 8 families, we are likely to cancel it and try to move the families to other classes that may work in their schedules. We will make every effort to find a class that works for each family, but if we can not, we will offer a full refund to each family for the class. We will make every effort to make those decisions at least one week prior to the start of the class.
Can I bring my un-registered older sibling to class?
Throughout the semester, 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 1 class per semester. Please let your teacher know if you expect to bring an older sibling.
When can I expect class confirmation?
Confirmation emails are sent out once you complete registration, this is more of a "we received your registration and payment" notice. A second email will be sent within a week confirming class placement.
How do I schedule a makeup class?
We have several classes designated for makeups. Please schedule makeup classes asap as they tend to fill up quickly.
- Click on "my account" on the top right of this page. Click on "My Classes" then "Schedule a makeup"
Click on the way you'd like to sort the list of classes by day, time or location.
Click on "Show Availability" then "select". Click on the box next to your child's name then update.
Put it on your calendar and you are all set!
Please limit your number of makeups to 3; this allows everyone the opportunity to make up missed classes. If you know you’ll miss a class during the semester, please let us know and we will inform the teacher.
Can I switch to a different class?
We understand that schedules change and we will accommodate when class availability allows. Take a look at the current schedule and send Sharon an email with the class day, time and location that you'd like to switch into. We will make every effort to accommodate your request.
Can I get a refund if I need to withdraw from class?
We offer a full refund up to the day before the semester starts. If you must cancel after classes have started and another family can fill your spot in the class, then we will give a full refund for the classes you will not be able to attend minus the cost of registration ($35). If your space is unfilled, we will issue a half-refund for the remaining classes.
What if I start classes after the semester begins?
There is a registration cut off date for each session and we won't allow registrations after that date. If you register after the first day of classes but before the registration deadline, we will prorate your tuition. Please email Sharon to work out the details.
Can we eat in class?
Please feel comfortable to nurse your child in class, but we ask that you not bring food or drink into classrooms.
Is it OK for more than one adult to come to class?
Both or either parent, grandparents or caregivers are welcome to attend class at any time – no need to ask. 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.
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 socialize 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! Wandering toddlers are 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!
How should we use the Music Together Materials?
Play your CD 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 she is 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. Familiarization with notation will help them when they are more ready for formal music instruction, typically when they are school aged.
New Music Together parents receive our introductory DVD “Music Together at Home: Helping Your Child Grow Musically." During class your teacher will refer to topics and point out examples of things covered in the video. We are also happy to discuss your child's individual progress in obtaining musical competence at any time outside of class. If you are a returning student and it has been months or years since you have read the Parent Guide or seen the new DVD, reread it or ask for a copy of the DVD today! You may be surprised how valuable it is, especially after having personal experience observing your child's music development.
Where can I buy some of the instruments we have in class?
Instruments are available for purchase for use at home or as gifts directly from http://musictogether.com/Store.
May I bring a camera to class?
As our classes are participatory and educational experiences between adults and children, we ask families to please be considerate when taking pictures...don't make the class ALL about pictures, and only take pictures of your child.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Gift certificates for any amount towards Music Together of Charlotte classes can be purchased at any time. It makes a nice baby shower or birthday gift. Grandparents love to buy these for holiday gifts. Let us know if you would like it sent directly to the recipient or to the purchaser.
Do you have any discounts?
We value your experience with Music Together and if you enjoy it enough to tell a friend we will give you $20 off for every new family that registers for a Music Together class that you have referred to us. Just be sure to let us know when you get a friend to join a class.
We all know how important repetition is for our children to learn. For you and your child to get the full value of Music Together it is important for you to participate regularly. To encourage your regular participation we will give you a 30% discount for the Spring session when you participate in our Fall and Winter session. You must participate in the Fall, Winter & Spring in that order to qualify. We will contact you prior to the spring session to let you know that you qualify for this discount.
