Carmel Facility Educates Youngsters on the Power of Music
Writer / Julie Yates
Photography Provided
Ask any preschool teacher and they will enthusiastically explain the benefits of exposing young children to music. Research has shown that music instruction during early childhood improves cognitive and memory development. Since 2002, Indianapolis and Carmel -area families have enjoyed the music education program offered by The Music Playhouse. In 2014, growing demand led owner Debbie Aikman to open a Carmel location on Rangeline Road.
We have a very loyal and strong customer base, Aikman says. Many families through the years not only have enjoyed our program session to session, but many also come back to bring their younger kiddos. We had grown enough through the years that we hung our shingle in the center of Carmel at Monon Square Shopping Center, right next door to Soho Cafe.
The Music Playhouse has exclusive rights to the curriculum of The Music Class, Inc. for Indianapolis and the northside. Each class is filled with high-energy music that often inspires movement. The 45-minute sessions designed for infants to age five are led by well-trained teachers. A parent or caregiver attends the classes along with the participants.
Rapid brain development during the first years of life make it the critical time for developing pitch and rhythm skills, Aikman says. Nurturing the music development of infants, toddlers and preschoolers opens the door to a lifetime of understanding and enjoyment of music, and greater ease when learning to play an instrument.
Sessions follow four seasonal 10-week schedules each year, offering 12 different music collections over a three-year period and include both online and in-person options. The virtual classes are interactive, and a key component is the involvement of a parent or caregiver to model the activities for the attending child. These at-home classes are offered Monday through Friday mornings, Monday evenings, and Thursday afternoons.
For those ready to return to the classroom in a brick-and-mortar facility, classes are held Monday through Saturday mornings and Tuesday evenings. Students register to attend the same time each week, and are allowed three make-up classes at a different time if space is available.
The curriculum has a very specific methodology and approach designed to engage young age groups. The instructors have musical backgrounds, and are trained to lead high-energy and quick-moving sessions. The parents tend to enjoy the diverse music as well. Those curious about The Music Playhouse can take a free trial class.
I absolutely love the positive developmental impact we are making on the kids through their early exposure to so many styles and rhythms, Aikman says. I am also very grateful that we are able to be the conduit for so many families to bond and experience the joy of music.
The Music Playhouse Carmel is located at 620 South Rangeline Road in the Monon Square Shopping Center. For more info, call 317-573-0080 and visit www.themusicplayhouse.com.
