Group Classes

Program Goals…

It is my goal to offer high quality, developmentally sound, fun and supportive music classes for children (and their parents/caregivers). I strive to provide an environment for students to move, sing, listen and play, building fundamental language and social skills. In the early years, musical concepts are explored through traditional & classic songs, finger plays, bounces, dances, and the use of small instruments and props. Older children will enjoy more complex singing games and Orff instrumentations.

About the Curriculum…

I have personally developed the curriculums that you see below, inspired by my training and refined in the classroom. I offer school year length programs for Kindergarten age children and older, as the musical growth occuring over this time period is both inspiring and tangible.

CLASS DESCRIPTIONS & FEES:

Songs & Rhymes for Families
Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. 
(Fall, Winter & Spring Sessions)
1 – 3 Years, with a parent/caregiver. 35 minutes. Little ones and parents/caregivers will enjoy sharing seasonal finger plays, bounces, songs, dances and instrument play. Each session features different songs.
Fall Session: 10 Weeks, Sept 22 – Nov 24
$120
Winter Session: 10 Weeks, Jan 12 – March 23 (no class March 16)
$120
Spring Session: 10 Weeks, April 6 – June 8
$120
Request a registration form

Songs & Rhymes for Preschoolers
Saturdays at 10:15 a.m.
(Fall, Winter & Spring Sessions)
3 Years + with a parent/caregiver. 40 minutes This class is geared towards your young child’s developing imagination and growing independence. We will move like our favourite animals and take turns in singing games and instrument play.
Fall Session: 10 Weeks, Sept 22 – Nov 24
$120
Winter Session: 10 Weeks, Jan 12 – March 23 (no class March 16)
$120
Spring Session: 10 Weeks, April 6 – June 8
$120
Request a registration form  

Kindergarten Music Explorers— 36 Weeks
Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.
45 minutes, children only (parent sharing times will be arranged) Kindergarten age children are now ready to play in a group with more complex partner and circle games. Musical elements will be experienced through fun singing games, rhythm activities, instrument play and listening activities. Solo singing and playing and ensemble work is encouraged. In the spring we will chose a few favourite songs and rhymes to record for our own class CD.
Sept 12 – Dec 12, (no class Oct 31), Jan 9 – June 19 (no class on March 13)

$580. Payable in 4 installments of $145 or 8 installments of $72.50.
Request a registration form

Fine Musicians (Grade 1&2) — 36 Weeks
Wednesdays at 4:30 p.m.
50 minutes, children only (parent sharing times will be arranged) Children will continue to develop their musicality through more challenging singing and rhythm games, solo and ensemble playing; creating a strong foundation for developing musical literacy. In the spring we will chose a few favourite songs and rhymes to record for our own class CD. Our group will also perform in the end of year concert.
Sept 12 – Dec 12, (no class Oct 31), Jan 9 – June 19 (no class on March 13)


$600. Payable in 4 installments of $150 or 8 installments of $75.
Request a registration form   

Star Singers 1 (Grade 2/3) — 36 Weeks
Thursdays at 4:00 p.m.
55 minutes. Young singers will enjoy playing Kodaly/Orff style singing & rhythm games and developing musicianship through beginner note reading, ear training, solo singing & ensemble work. A popular aspect of the program amongst students is our group’s development of a musical score for a favourite story. Previous experience is recommended but not required. In the spring we will chose a few favourite songs and rhymes to record for our own class CD. Our group will perform in the end of year concert.
Sept 13 – Dec 13, Jan 10 – June 13 (no class March 14)

$600. Payable in 4 installments of $150 or 8 installments of $75.
Request a registration form

Star Singers 2 (Grade 3/4) — 36 Weeks
Program may be available upon request
55 minutes. Graduates of Star Singers I will continue to build upon note reading, ear training skills, group and solo singing, instrumental playing and performing skills, culminating in an end of year performance. In the spring we will chose a few favourite songs and rhymes to record for our own class CD.
Sept 14 – Dec 14, Jan 11 – June 14 (no class March 15)
$600. Payable in 4 installments of $150 or 8 installments of $75.
Request a registration form

Moon Singers & Sun Singers
Moon Singers: Ages 9 – 12. Sun Singers: Ages 13 – 14.
The best of both worlds – Private Lessons with a Monthly Group Class
While private instruction allows for personalized lesson plans and individual attention, groups give students the opportunity to sing and play instruments together, building important musical ensemble skills. Moon & Sun Singers students attend weekly private vocal lessons and meet once a month for a complimentary hour long group class.
Sept. – June. $25/Week. Please inquire.
Request a registration form  

Please note that all classes are pending registration numbers (minimum 4 students, maximum 10).

Saturday classes are held at The Unitarian Congregation of Guelph, 122 Harris Street. Kindergarten Music Explorers, Fine Musicians, Star Singers 2, Moon Singers and Sun Singers classes are held at Shannon’s home studio on Ontario Street.

Photo (top) courtesy of Elizabeth Cunningham at Waterside Arts