A Creative Start to Piano
Learning an instrument can feel intimidating to a child, but it doesn’t have to. By choosing Play a Story™, you’re giving your child a creative foundation in music. You’ll see them light up with confidence as they improvise and proudly share their music with others.
Instead of starting with music notation, children bring stories and moods to life on the piano while building muscle memory and finger independence.
"My kids loved so many things about class—using butterfly hands, getting to know the keys and chords, and learning music terms like staccato, legato, piano, and forte. They also enjoyed waltzing, which introduced them to different time signatures, and learning from their peers as they played."
Kelly L.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my child need to practice?
It is expected that your child will spend a few days a week outside of class to practice - but only for a few minutes at a time, nothing too strenuous! With our program comes a subscription to fabulous digital materials - quick instructional videos to review what has been learned in class, stories and movies to play along with, and more. Based on parent feedback and teacher observation, those who practice outside of class AND use the digital materials regularly will get the most benefit and enjoyment from our classes.
You will need to have access to a full-sized keyboard or piano to be able to practice outside of class.
Is my child ready?
If your CHILD is able to follow directions in a classroom setting and is showing genuine interest in the piano, this may be a perfect option for you. If YOU are committed to having this be a together activity, this may be a great fit. The true value is exploring and learning alongside each other - this makes it more fun for your child and a bonding experience for you both. You’ll attend class together, sometimes assist your child with the guidance of the teacher, and it works so well when a grownup engages in the practice time at home as well.
We strongly feel there is no rush to get started - the last thing we want to do is force it if your child isn’t quite ready. We offer a Kindermusik Level 4 class for ages 4.5 to 6 years that is a beautiful start to music as well - and may be just what your child needs before committing to the piano class. Children will be in a play-centered classroom to move their bodies to music, build friendships, enhance their classroom-readiness skills, and learn beginning musical concepts on age-appropriate instruments. Each class is 45 minutes, and a grownup will join at the end for a few activities together - but there is no outside practice needed yet. This is a WONDERFUL option if you don’t feel your child is quite ready for the piano class format.
Why is "Play a Story" a group format?
The group format is a really fun way to celebrate each other’s accomplishments, gain inspiration from others, and be in a social setting and part of a community. It can be just as valuable to watch and learn from others! While it does take some time to cycle through turns at the piano, it really does work! It sort of comes back to the at-home practice - the more prepared your child is for class, the easier their turn at the piano will be, and the more confident and proud they’ll feel.
