Frequently Asked Questions
- What can I expect from class?
- Why aren’t there separate classes for different age groups?
- What is the class size?
- Can I bring my un-registered older sibling to class?
- When can I expect class confirmation?
- What if I miss a class during the semester? How do I schedule a makeup?
- What if it snows or there is inclement weather?
- Can I switch to a different class?
- What if I need to withdraw from class?
- What if I start classes after the semester begins?
- Can we eat in class?
- Is it OK for more than one adult to come to class?
- As a parent, what is my role in class?
- How should we use the Music Together Materials?
- Where can I buy some of the instruments we have in class?
- May I bring a camera to class?
- Do you offer gift certificates?
What can I expect from class?
Music Together is designed for children ages birth through kindergarten. At Music Together we believe that music ability is as much a basic life skill as walking and talking, and that all children can learn to sing in tune, keep a beat, and participate with pleasure and confidence in the music of their culture. Music Together classes nurture the child’s natural enthusiasm for music and movement as we sing, dance, chant, and play instruments in an informal setting that will enrich her musical environment and guide her towards a lifetime of music-making enjoyment.
Why aren’t there separate classes for different age groups?
In the 1980s, Music Together pioneered the development of the mixed-age approach in early childhood music. In each class we strive to create a musically rich, developmentally appropriate environment where the whole family can enjoy music and nurture skills at the level right for each child. Mixed-age classes also provide a rich learning environment because children of different ages thrive when they interact with each other: the babies are often fascinated by the older child, and the “big” children enjoy helping and sharing with the “little” ones. This approach is based on research from music education, early childhood development, and family relationships, as well as our 20 years experience in the field.
What is the class size?
Each class has 8-12 registered children plus their primary caregiver(s).
Can I bring my un-registered older sibling to class?
Throughout the semester, Music Together classes may be in session when older children have a school holiday and it is natural to want to bring them with you to class. Older siblings of registered students may visit 1 class only per semester, provided that the visit is prearranged through email with management. Visitation spots are available on a first come, first serve basis. Occassionally, your MT class will meet on a Fairfax County teacher workday and we do allow older siblings to accompany your registered child to class.
When can I expect class confirmation?
Confirmation emails are sent out from our office once the class has met minimum enrollment. If the class has not met minimum enrollment, you will be notified of placement in your second choice.
What if I miss a class during the semester? How do I schedule a makeup?
Families are allowed two makeups per semester. If you would like to schedule or cancel a makeup class, please go to our website www.musictogetherofvienna.com (scheduling must be done 48 hours prior to the class you’d like to attend). You are allowed two makeups per semester, and they will not rollover to the next semester. If you have more than one child, you will only need one makeup slot per family (that is, ONE makeup slot will cover both registered children in the class). You can access the scheduler by logging into your account, clicking on My Classes and then choosing SCHEDULE A MAKEUP. You will be able to choose from the list of available classes. **In order to keep classes from becoming too large, drop-ins are NOT permitted. (Please note: makeups do not carry over from previous semesters). If you know you’ll miss a class during the semester, please email your teacher (her email is listed on the top of your policy sheet that you receive with your materials on your first day of class.
What if it snows or there is inclement weather?
Morning classes at the community center will not be held when Fairfax County Public Schools are closed or have a delayed opening. Visit www.fcps.edu for delays and closings (click on emergency announcements), check local TV channels or channel 21.
Can I switch to a different class?
Requests for class changes must be initiated within the first three weeks of the semester, and are made at the discretion of the center director, depending on class availability. Changes are not made after the third week of the semester.
What if I need to withdraw from class?
Families wishing to withdraw from class must do so before the registration deadline for each semester (typically the first day of classes). Families are responsible for class attendance. Non-attendance does not constitute a withdrawal and all tuition fees are forfeited if the office is not informed of your withdrawal before the registration deadline. If circumstances necessitate withdrawal from class, please call or email our office.
What if I start classes after the semester begins?
The Music Together of Vienna does not prorate for classes missed due to late registration. However, families do receive two makeup classes per semester.
Can we eat in class?
Please feel comfortable to nurse your child in class, but we ask that you not bring food or drink into classrooms. Water in sippy cups or bottles of milk can be kept in your bag for a "quick sip" if necessary.
Is it OK for more than one adult to come to class?
Both or either parent, grandparents or caregivers are welcome to attend class at any time – no need to ask. Whole family music making in your home is extremely valuable to your child's musical development, and attending class occasionally helps the other family members to join in at home.
As a parent, what is my role in class?
Enhance your child's experience in class by remembering to sing, sing, sing. Your active participation is the key to your children learning and growing musically. Support the creation of a music only environment while in class by not talking to your children or other adults during the 45 minutes. Since it is difficult for a young child to mask out adult conversation please wait to socialize till after class, and instead contribute to the creation of a musical environment for the children to absorb.
Try not to give verbal directions. It can be tough to restrain the impulse to give your child directives such as "Do what she is doing, hold your instrument this way” but children respond best by just seeing and hearing you doing (and enjoying) it yourself! Wandering toddlers is fine, but If you want your child to come back to you, avoid calling to him from across the room. If necessary, redirect your child physically back to you or the circle. Of course watch out for your child’s safety, but mostly your job is to just relax, and have fun!
How should we use the Music Together Materials?
Play your CD at home and in the car as frequently as possible, especially during the first few weeks of class. Make it available to your child to listen to while she is playing or before nap or bedtime. Use the songbook to help you remember the songs or to play along if you play an instrument. Try using the songbook at storytime instead of a regular book, and sing through the songs as you go along. Looking at the printed notes on the page will help children understand that music is something that can be read, like words. Familiarization with notation will help them when they are more ready for formal music instruction, typically when they are school aged.
New Music Together parents receive our introductory DVD “Music Together at Home: Helping Your Child Grow Musically”. During class your teacher will refer to topics and point out examples of things covered in the video. We are also happy to discuss your child's individual progress in obtaining musical competence at any time outside of class. If you are a returning student and it has been months or years since you have read the Parent Guide or seen the new DVD, reread it or ask for a copy of the DVD today! You may be surprised how valuable it is, especially after having personal experience observing your child's music development.
Where can I buy some of the instruments we have in class?
Instruments are available for purchase for use at home or as gifts directly from http://musictogether.com/Store.
May I bring a camera to class?
We do allow you to take pictures and video, however, as our classes are participatory and educational experiences between adults and children, we ask our families to limit this to perhaps once or twice per semester.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Gift certificates for any amount towards Music Together of Vienna classes can be purchased at any time. It makes a nice baby shower or birthday gift. Grandparents love to buy these for holiday gifts. Let us know if you would like it sent directly to the recipient or to the purchaser.
