Carnatic Music for Children
The Carnatic Music Preschool for children of ages 5 to 9 introduces Carnatic Music to children that are not yet ready for full-fledged and formal Classical music training.
Exposing children to Carnatic music at these ages is very different from providing formal Carnatic music training. Most children, barring exceptionally talented ones tend to have a much lower attention span towards music and especially Classical music. The preschool aims to generate interest in Classical music in children and hold their attention long enough so they are able to absorb the basic flavor and sounds of Classical and Carnatic music. "Show don't tell" concept in a musical parlance, is the technique used in exposing (and not training or coaching) children to Carnatic Music.
Children learn in groups of up to 8 and learning and participation in groups is very important in developing a sensitivity and interest in Carnatic music.
The objectives of the Classical music preschool are:
- Ear Training in Classical music that helps children understanding Shruthi and musical scales
- Introduce children to a basic sense of Shruti and Rhythm by taking them through basic lessons (Portions of Sarali varisai and other lessons)
- Build an interest, inspiration and appreciation for Classical Music and learning and singing it
- Learning to sing Geethams and simple classical pieces suitable for children
An assessment of each child's receptivity to Carnatic music and level of interest is also determined and those that are more receptive are moved to advanced batches with more introduction to basic lessons.
Finally, when a child is demonstrating a strong interest and level of readiness for beginning formal Carnatic music lessons, I induct them into my regular Carnatic music classes schedule. The music preschool is a great way to ascertain interest, level of talent and receptivity of children for Carnatic music and laying the foundation for getting ready to learn Carnatic music.
I conduct the Preschool sessions for children entirely out of my interest and passion. All fees are donated to a not-for-profit organization.
Classes are held in Edison, New Jersey in 30 to 45 min sessions on Saturday and Sunday mornings between 9 and 10.30 am. For questions on availability and for registration, please use the Contact page on this site Students are inducted depending on availability in different batches. Trial sessions are available for parents to determine if the child can benefit from these sessions. Classes are not conducted on specific weekends depending on schools schedules and my own availability.
