Music Appreciation and Active Listening
All kinds of music is used in the classes. Children learn to identify sounds in the music. Children develop an appreciation for music. Learning to listen is a skill which is emphasized in the lessons. Learning to hear the emotions in music.
Movement to Music
Rhythmic movement and free dance encourage self-expression. Children are able to interpret what they hear and feel with their bodies. Children develop an understanding of their bodies and move in certain ways, for example, crossing the midline. Spatial awareness, they learn to perceive where they are in relation to the space around them. Muscle development, they gain flexibility and core strength through a series of fun activities and exercises.
Djembe Drumming
Children learn about the drum and how to play it. Children create their own rhythms and can express themselves individually. Children learn to play rhythmically in a group. Playing in a group encourages self-expression and self-confidence. Drumming stimulates both sides of the brain and is an excellent activity for whole brain development. Drumming has been found to be beneficial for improved coordination and memory. Drumming is a stress reliever and is such fun.
Learning to play a variety of percussion instruments
Happy Beat provides a strong base for further music education by exposing children to a variety of percussion instruments and teaching them how to play these. Children learn the names of instruments and how to care for them. Both fine motor and gross motor skills are developed while learning to play instruments. Children learn to listen and follow instructions.
Music Theory
Children are introduced to music theory in a fun and interactive way. Children learn to read music and play along with percussion instruments and backing music. Each child is encouraged to take theory notes home and practice with their families. Children read and play their own notes for the group. This also builds their confidence in themselves and their abilities.
Singing
Children become more confident in themselves by expressing themselves through singing. Children are encouraged to use their voices in different ways. This is important for developing pitch and tone. Learning songs helps children to improve their memory. Singing is an uplifting activity. Singing encourages children to be a part of a group and is a fun social activity.
Dramatisation
Dramatisation helps children to identify their emotions and builds their self-confidence, by acting out a character or pretending to be different creatures or even inventing their own stories. Children are encouraged to be creative and imaginative.