Melody Minors

previously JingleTots and Preschool Musical Fun.

Why is Music important?

Click here for article on making music

Timetable of classes   Term Dates     Venues     Photo gallery

Click on the links above for information about times and venues

Classes offered by age group or mixed. all include time for refreshments and  play
for the children. This is important as the babies and children need to be able to feel comfortable with each other so they are happy to join in.

Classes offered with carer/parent ; baby only 6 weeks - 1 year
6 weeks - 2 and a half years
2 and a half - 4 years
3 - 4 years
3 - 4 years without carer/parent (A 45 minute class without toy box)

"A fantastic mix of songs, instruments and laughter which keeps all the children and adults (involved and participating) on their toes. The best music group I've found in 8 years of child rearing"  Kate Laughton.

The classes are small and friendly, adapting to the needs of the group. Each half term is loosely based around a theme,
and we often use books, props or even dressing up items to bring our theme to life. Themes include; Farm Animals, Jungle Animals, Transport, the Sea, Magic, Mini-Beasts, People.

We always begin with "shaker" songs, followed by action songs, changing each half term. A wide selection of percussion is then introduced including tambourines, drums, bells, wood-blocks, triangles and rain-makers. The children are encouraged to listen to each other, follow the beat of the music, look at the 'conductor', play loud and soft , and enjoy music making. The older the children the more complicated the variations.

We then explore our theme using imagination and the beginnings of drama; in the baby class using simple nursery rhymes, in the older classes developing stories in music. a lot of the songs we use have been written by us especially to develop an awareness of rhythm or pitch. We encourage listening by using tapes and excerpts from folk or classical music in this section. In the older classes the children help make up the songs.

The class ends with our goodbye song.
Much needed tea and refreshments follow while the children play with the toy box.

"Jingletots is a fantastic way to introduce structure and discipline using fun and exciting music. Logan never had to give a toy up before Jingletots. Now the 'tidy up' song really works because Logan realises another even more exciting musical instrument is coming." Mum to Logan  age 9 months

3 - 4 years - Offered to Playgroups and Nurseries or by private arrangement

Offering music theory, improvisation and percussion. Children will also be have the chance to experiment with the recorder, glockenspiel, cimbala and accordion with qualified teachers.  At the end of each term we perform for the parents.

They will play games that teach basic music notation, and rhythm and pitch recognition. Children will only be accepted for this group if they are able to happily leave their parents after they have met us.

  To discuss the needs of your child call Jenny on:

Tel: 01844 34 44 41

Mobile: 07754 518 034