Q: How old should my child be? A: Our entry level programs begin at 18 months, but students can begin at any age. Our age specific programs are designed to support each child at his or her own pace. Q: Will my child learn more in a private lesson? A: We have found private lessons are more appropriate for intermediate to advanced levels. Young children and elementary age students starting out learn better in a group environment with motivating and essential musical activities. Most private lessons are note reading based training working on reading 'one note at a time' and mastering technique. This may be stifling for a young student's creative mind. Q: Will my child learn to read music? A: Our comprehensive music program focuses on all musical skills. Note reading is a vital musical skill. Children should experience music first through the ear. Along with singing, ear-raining and rhythmic activities reading music becomes easier and natural for them. Our philosophy is, "if you can sing and play it first, the notes on the paper will make sense to you." Q: How is the Harmony Music course different? A: Harmony Road is a piano based music course for children. Although many other young children's music programs sing, dance and use rhythm instruments, they do not teach your child to play an instrument. Harmony Road curriculum uses a total approach to music training through hearing, singing and playing. Parent's involvement is a key factor in a student's success. Courses follow a logical flow from one level to the next, providing students with a strong musical foundation. Key distinctions include: Total music, rather than just playing the piano. Student's have the freedom to be creative by writing music, transposing and improvising. Learning to play ensembles where each person is playing a different part as in a "keyboard" band. A fun learning environment without the pressure to be perfect. Q: Do I come to class with my child? A: A parent or family member is required to attend Toddler Tunes, Music in Me and Harmony Road for ages 4-6 years. You and your child will be learning together and sharing practice times. Please be prepared to set aside time for home practice. This greatly enhances your child's musical experience making learning more enjoyable. Parent participation is encouraged but not required in our elementary levels. Staying in touch with your instructor and supervising home practices may be sufficient. But studies show that the more a parent is involved in their child's music lessons, the more apt the child is to continue and love music. Q: Do I need to buy a piano? A: We encourage all our students to own or rent an acoustic or digital piano (one with weighted keys). We realize that this may be not an option for some. Electronic keyboards with 66 keys or more may be used for beginning levels. As students progress, we recommend upgrading to a weighted key instrument. Q: How do I enroll? A: You can download the registration and policy form and mail it along with your registration- materials fee to Fresno School of Music 1085 E. Herndon Suite 106 Fresno, CA 93720. We do not accept credit cards on-line at this time. You can also register at the school during office hours. We do accept credit cards at our site. Our school is located on the Southeast corner of First and Herndon. For further assistance please feel free to call us at 559-439-6609.