Our class is based off of John Feierabend’s “First Steps in Music” curriculum. Most of the songs we sing have been passed down through generations. Not only do children love the music, it’s developmentally appropriate for babies and toddlers – designed to help them develop their love of music and grow as young musicians!

Each class begins with musical play time while families trickle in and get situated, followed by a Hello Song where children are greeted by name. The remainder of class is a mix of songs, activities, movement, instruments, and props. Each class ends with a Lullaby.

We think it’s important for a child’s musical development to hear live music. Although we occasionally use recordings, most of our songs are accompanied by the teacher on ukulele, keyboard, or percussion instruments.

Classes are taught by Ashley McGinnis and/or Brendan Hartnett. Your teacher(s) will guide you through the music and help you modify activities to best suit your child’s age.

This is a zero pressure class. We want your little ones to love music as much as we do! Children learn and participate at their own pace. 

Music is a universal human trait. Throughout history people of all cultures have enjoyed making music, and families & communities traditionally made music together.

For generations, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and older siblings have engaged babies and young children in musical play. This multi-generational music making aids in bonding and development.

Our classes mimic the family/community music making environment. Little ones love to take their cues from the big kids and older children love to be helpers and leaders.

The parents/caregivers are instrumental in creating the best atmosphere for learning. Your active participation is the key to a great music class. Participation includes singing, dancing, movement, using instruments, and playing with your baby.

No musical talent required! Your child doesn’t care if you can sing on pitch – they just love to hear you! Classes are laid back and we all make music as a group, you won’t be put on the spot or expected to perform.

Try to avoid verbal directions (“hold the instrument like this” etc). You are your child’s best model. They’ll get the most out of seeing and hearing you. It’s normal for young children to wander or sit quietly during class. Although they may seem distracted, they’re often taking it all in. It’s important to continue to participate, even if your child’s attention wanders.

It takes time for children to warm up and get used to the routine. Many children are more comfortable singing, dancing, and playing at home. Often children who don’t make a peep in class will belt out all the words in the car! Be sure to try the songs, chants, and rhymes at home. You may be surprised by their reaction!

Classroom:


We remove our shoes for class. Please bring socks for you and your child.

Please leave food and toys at home. Breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and water bottles are fine!

This is a parent/child class. All children must have an adult with them. Family music making is wonderful for your child’s musical development!

Enrollment:
Our Family Class offers open enrollment. You can enroll mid-session if there’s room. If you enroll after the first class, tuition will be prorated.

Classes have a maximum enrollment of 8 families, and a minimum enrollment of 4.
If enrollment is too low to hold the class, you will be informed before the first class and given a full refund.

Tuition:

Tuition reserves your spot. Please pay through the registration form. If you’d prefer to pay by cash or check, please let us know and we’ll send an invoice.

Sibling Discounts: Full tuition is charged for the first child. Additional siblings can enroll at a discounted rate. Infants 8 months and younger can attend for free with a registered sibling.

Please pay on the registration form, or with check/cash in person at the first class.

There is a $25 fee for returned checks/payments.

Refunds:
Tuition can be refunded until the first day of class. Tuition is nonrefundable after the first class. There are no refunds or credits for missed classes.

Make Ups:
Midgarden Music is a small company. Unfortunately we cannot guarantee make ups at this time. If there is another class that hasn’t reached it’s maximum enrollment, you are more than welcome to join us for a make up. Missed classes are nonrefundable.