By Susan Guenther, Old School Arts Centre
There is something new about to happen within Raglan’s music scene. On Monday 3rd September two local musicians are launching preschool music classes for ages 1-5 “and babies are welcome of course!”
Renee Manning and Vicki Greetis have a passion for sharing music and fostering the musical future of Raglan, believing that participating in group music making helps children build skills at an early age.
The Little Rockhoppers Music Classes at Raglan Old School Arts Centre, will expose youngsters to many forms of music. Children will explore the elements of music: pitch, beat, rhythm and tone, using instruments, body percussion, and found sounds. They will enjoy improvisation and action songs while exploring patterns in music. As mothers themselves, Renee and Vicki would love the parents to join in. Instruments will be on hand for every child but families are very welcome to bring their own. The $5 family fee per session will contribute to the purchase of more instruments to use in future classes.
Renee and Vicki are both knowledgeable teachers, skilled in providing musical experiences that are fun, engaging and challenging for young children. Rockhoppers is a fresh, new idea, employing their own original material.
With a Bachelor of Music Education and 12 years experience as a music educator, Renee Manning has a passion for the voice, plays a variety of instruments and loves song-writing. Currently a primary music specialist in Hamilton, Renee particularly enjoys developing and directing children’s choirs.
Vicki Greetis is classically trained in piano and theory. Vicki’s primary instrument is now electric guitar, having played in several rock bands over the years. She is currently teaching guitar to youngsters.
Renee & Vicki hope Raglan families get right behind their classes and come along to both initial September sessions. They would love to extend the concept with weekly sessions in Term 4, ending the year with a group musical event: “The classes will be mornings of music, fun and learning for preschoolers and parents. We fully encourage parents to join in, the more the merrier….We hope that our classes will inspire parents to engage in more music play with their little ones at home”.
You do not need to reserve a place, just turn up on the day.
Session 1: Monday 3rd September 9.15 am – 9.55am
Session 2: Monday 10th September 9.15 am – 9.55 am
Enquire about Little Rockhoppers Music Classes at Raglan Old School Arts Centre 07 825 0023 or email: info@raglanartscentre.co.nz. Visit www.raglanartscentre.co.nz and click on our Facebook link for regularly updated information.