Music lessons

Music playgroups

Music playgroups are a fun, creative and hands-on way for children to learn about music. Young children are actively involved in the learning process, where they discover basic musical concepts such as rhythm and melody through play. Music playgroups allow children to explore the musical world with all their senses, with an emphasis on their natural curiosity and creativity. Music playgroups can also serve as an introductory course before starting the Music preparatory course at Pionirski dom.

The initial lessons are mainly focused on learning about rhythms. Together with the children, we march, clap hands and move in rhythm, using rhythmic instruments to accompany both marching and music – from singing to listening. Children also enjoy creating rhythms on instruments that they make themselves. Making musical instruments is a special part of the course, since parents, grandparents and other family members are also invited to these lessons. Using a range of natural and waste materials, we create a range of instruments such as rattles, scrapers, stringed instruments, castanets and so on. This part of the course stimulates intergenerational cooperation and teaches children about the importance of a sustainable attitude towards nature and the environment.

Once the children have mastered the basics of rhythm, we gradually shift our focus to exploring melody. They get to know basic notes and melodies using melodic instruments such as metallophones and xylophones. The exercises are designed to train children’s melodic ear in an unobtrusive way and teach them how sounds combine to form harmonic wholes.

As well as playing instruments, children learn about various forms of musical expression. There is a major focus on singing and we use a wide range of songs – from art songs to folk songs – that introduce children to our rich musical heritage. Singing together builds the feeling of belonging to a group and strengthens children’s self-confidence.

Linking music and movement

One of the key characteristics of music playgroups is that participants are constantly moving. Movement is not just a way to have fun, it is how children experience music and connect it to their own bodies. Using their bodies, they create various rhythmic patterns (clapping, snapping, tapping) and make music in a way that is both natural and pleasing to them. Activities involving movement also include elements of improvisation, which stimulates their creativity and self-expression.

Holistic development through music

The course is designed to stimulate children’s holistic development – alongside musical abilities it develops motor skills, social skills and cognitive skills. Music becomes a tool for expressing feelings, discovering the world and boosting confidence. Music playgroups are a relaxed, fun and stimulating setting in which children not only learn to listen to music but also to live it and create it.