The following is a list of Frequently Asked Questions. If you have any other questions, feel free to contact Ms Abigail.
What age is the program for? Sound Beginnings is a family class designed for children ages 0-4 and a caregiver.
How is the curriculum calendar structured? The curriculum is organized into 6 non-sequential semesters. Each semester includes 15 sessions over a 4-month period.
How long and how frequent are the classes? Classes are 30 minutes and taught weekly.
What is the cost of tuition? Semester tuition is $240 for a single child. Family tuition (two or more children, including infants) is $300/semester
When are classes held? I currently teach Tuesday mornings and afternoons. I will be adding more class times in early 2025
Where are classes held? These parent/tot classes are held at my house in Rancho Penasquitos (near I-15 and 56 intersection)
What materials do I get? Each semester includes a digital download of the current semester songs, access to the Let's Play Music app, a Student Workbook, Sound Beginnings tote bag, and a percussion instrument used during class.
What is the cost of materials? The cost for materials is approximately $45 each semester plus shipping and handling.
How big are the classes? Class size varies, but the ideal is eight students or five families.
Why are they group lessons? It has been well-documented that children in group settings learn and perform better. They are more comfortable and stimulated in this environment. They thrive on the synergy and playful interaction of the Sound Beginnings class.
What is the parent involvement? Parent involvement in music training is crucial. The parent/caregiver attends with the child every week and reviews class activities at home.
Is there any vocal training? Sound Beginnings adheres to the philosophy that the voice is the first musical instrument. Most of the class time is spent singing. The voice is trained to sing in tune, to sing naturally and openly, to sing in harmony, and singing accompanied. At ages 2-4, specific tone, placement, or support instruction is not completely beneficial. Sound Beginnings is not a performing group.
Can I join Sound Beginnings at any time? Yes. Sound Beginnings is non-sequential, meaning that students can begin and end with any semester. There are no prerequisites.
What do students do after Sound Beginnings? Students may continue through the six semesters of Sound Beginnings until age 4. At the age of 4, they may begin Let’s Play Music!
How is Sound Beginnings different from other music classes? Sound Beginnings is full of songs, games, and activities that expose children to important musical and preschool concepts and skills. It incorporates the philosophies of Kodaly, Orff, and Dalcroze, adapted specifically for young children. Activities are concise with quick transitions to keep the focus and attention of this age group. Classical music is introduced with “movement” that will forever endear children to this genre. There are numerous innovative, creative ideas for internalizing music, and ear training is emphasized from the start. Sound Beginnings is an excellent precursor to Let’s Play Music and Kindergarten.
Why should I enroll my child in Sound Beginnings? Your child will LOVE it! You will love it because you will see him/her develop and demonstrate both musical and preschool skills. Your relationship with your child will grow as you enjoy class time and practice time together, in a playful, nurturing environment. Your outlook on playing with your child in a musical way will never be the same!
Where do I sign up? Enrollment and material purchase is done on the corporate website. Registration along with the registration and tuition fees are paid directly to Ms. Abigail. All materials will be shipped directly to Ms. Abigail and be ready for your child the first day of class.