Welcome to Music Alive with God's Children!  We are pleased that you are considering music classes for your child. Research has shown that we are all born with an aptitude for music, but that aptitude diminishes if it is not actively nurtured between the ages of birth and nine.

The name, Music Alive with God's Children, was chosen to reflect the importance of the children and families who make the music come alive  with their singing, dancing, instrument play and so much more!  What gives these classes a unique character is the addition of Biblical songs and activities in a loving, family-centered atmosphere that can nurture the spirituality of both children and adults of all faiths.  Seniors, especially grandparents, are encouraged to attend classes and participate as much as possible to create a wonderful intergenerational experience.

The Musikgarten classes offered at Music Alive with God's Children are designed to nurture the child’s music aptitude by engaging children and their families in singing and movement activities which help attune the ear, refine the voice, and develop a rhythmic body through which music can be expressed. Additionally, instrumental activities are part of the program, ranging from playing simple rhythm instruments such as drums, rhythm sticks, shakers, Resonators Bars and a variety of other percussion instruments for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and kindergarteners,  to playing keyboards for older children.

Musikgarten is the only program that offers curricula for newborns through group piano instruction, and Music Alive with God's Children does offer classes for all these ages, beginning with the Family Music for Babies and culminating with the group classes of Music Makers at the Keyboard. It is based on a keen understanding of how children learn, in both a general sense and, specifically, how they learn music.

This year, 2011-2012, I am offering the "Music Keys" program for an all day preschool class at Epiphany Early Learning Center in Normal, IL.  Music Keys presents music and movement activities to build the sensory-motor foundation for learning, respecting the preschool child's growing independence nd developing competencies.  The primary goal is to bring the children together with the teachers into the  music, movement, and environmental experience which will support development and educational growth in the classroom.

As you familiarize yourself with our class offerings and learn more about Musikgarten, we look forward to answering your questions, welcoming your family into our music program, and joining us for a fun and exciting musical journey.

Mary C. Van Deven, Owner and Teacher