got the beat? ’smusicacademy

story by | jackie zwingel

Music is many things and everyone responds to it. It is art and expression. It can set a mood, be enjoyed alone or in a group, and elicit emotion. It transcends age, race, and culture. Music is the language of the soul! And whether your kiddo is the next Carrie Underwood or destined for merely shower singing sessions, exposure to music has only benefits to offer. And these benefits go far beyond proper finger keying or do-re-mi-fa-sol-la-ti renditions.

makin’ the grade

There are decades of research singing the praises of music training and its positive influence on academic success. Higher standardized test scores, improved performance in math, science, and English have been found in multiple studies. Why is this? One reason can be an enhanced response to sound. Research has shown that individuals with a robust response to sound tend to have better listening and learning abilities.

The Children’s Music Academy [CMA] in Fargo provides music training for age three to eight and has a strong focus on ear training. Eighty percent of the inner ear is developed between the ages of four and five. Many students come into CMA without having any exposure to music, but they easily absorb everything taught each week because it is the prime time in their young life to fine-tune their listening abilities. Experts have long seen that musical practice improves skills including language, speech, memory, attention, and even vocal emotion. An enhanced ability to decipher sound with its relevant meaning offers benefits beyond just musical instrument mastery.

that-a-musician

At CMA there are multiple examples of music impacting more than just musical learning. The reluctant first time attendee starts the program shy and hesitant to try a lot of things. But soon that same student is running into the classroom each week, excited for class. The confidence gained at CMA is amazing, but not surprising because it is built right into the program. Children in CMA are constantly performing for each other. These performances allow students to conquer their fear and take risks. They perform their first solo six weeks into the program and it’s no big deal for them. They are excited and confident to perform. Throughout life we have to know how to get out of our comfort zone to succeed. Music performance provides an opportunity to master this life skill.

On And On And On

Truly the benefits of music are immense. In addition to learning enhancement and confidence building already discussed, music training also offers: concentration Learning music and mastering an instrument requires extended periods of concentration. This ability to concentrate will transcend to other areas such as school. hand-eye coordination Just like sport participation, learning a musical instrument offers coordination development of fine motor skills. creativity Music offers self-expression, stimulates creativity and imagination. Creativity also fosters problem solving skills. stress relieve Children and adults alike can use music as an opportunity to relax and relieve stress. enjoy smell

Yes, music is the language of the soul. Learning and appreciating music early in life can offer only a positive impact that can last a lifetime.

Families can expect to have a great time when they come to the Children’s Music Academy! We specialize in teaching music to children in a fun, positive, non-pressured, and lively classroom setting. The children will have the freedom to love and appreciate music, while developing fundamental musical skills that will last a lifetime. It is a parent participation program as well so the parents get to learn along with their child as well as spend precious time when them each week. The curriculum at CMA focuses on age-appropriate activities, which are designed to develop lifelong musical appreciation and aptitude. Children at CMA will be taught: piano/keyboard playing, singing, harmony, rhythm, note reading, ear training, composition, ensemble playing, recorder, and guitar. Children receive trophies and diplomas when they graduate but most importantly their music education will last with them a lifetime!