Let's Play Music in 2017

Registration for fall classes is right around the corner!  I would love to take into consideration your needs and schedules as I build my class schedule for the fall!

If you have a child (ages 4-6) you would like to enroll in Let's Play Music classes this fall, please complete THIS FORM by January 25th.

Registration will open February 1st online at www.letsplaymusicsite.com.

Sound Beginnings on Merry Main Street!

We've been having so much fun in Downtown Mesa as part of the Merry Main Street festivities!  Kidtastic events has arranged for 3 free holiday themed music classes, right under the christmas tree! You're invited to this FUN and FREE opportunity to get a sneak peak at the Sound Beginnings curriculum.  The next and final event will be held on Thursday, December 15th at 10:00 a.m.   Be sure to RSVP on the facebook event so we know to expect you!

Give the Gift of Music!

Give your toddler the gift of music this holiday!  Enroll today in one of my Sound Beginnings classes, and dedicate 30 minutes each week to bonding and enhancing the development of your toddler!  This fun filled class prepares students for success in Kindergarten and in my Let's Play Music classes through SEVEN foundational elements:

Literacy and Kindergarten Skills

Rhythm and Beat

Vocal and Pitch Development

Fine Motor Skills

Gross Motor Skills

Classical Music Experience

Parent Bonding

Classes are available at my home studio near Country Club & University in Mesa, or at my new Scottsdale studio at the Scottsdale Neighborhood Arts Place (SNAP) located off the 101 and Indian School.  Don't see a class time that will work for you?  Ask about alternate class times (minimum of 4 families registered to create a class).  

Enroll today at www.letsplaymusicsite.com and click find a teacher, and then search by my last name (Lovell).  Purchase your materials by December 18th and they will be available for local pick-up at the studio of your choice before Christmas! Monthly tuition is just $35/month for the first child or $45/month for a family.

Movies on Main - Exciting things!

Exciting things are happening in my little studio, and I can't wait to share them all with you!

First, have you checked out Movies on Main?  This is a great FREE downtown Mesa event.  Stop by our studio booth and say hello, dance with us before the show and get ready for some fun!

Students who wear their Let's Play Music shirt get a special prize!  There will be a costume contest, trick-or-treating at the vendor booths and LOTS of FUN!  I hope to see you there.

Fall 2016 Classes!

Happy first week of school! Many parents have reached out about the availability of classes during the fall, here are some classes that I am CONSIDERING and others that are scheduled:

Sound Beginnings (ages 2-4 & parent) - 

Wednesday 10:00 a.m. - this class is scheduled

Tuesday 2:00 p.m. - need minimum of 4 families

Sound Beginnings classes are 30 minutes (although families usually stay an extra 15 minutes to complete a craft), tuition is $100/semester ($25/month)

Let’s Play Music -1st Year (ages 4-6)

Tuesday 3:15 p.m. - need minimum of 4 students

1st Year LPM classes are 45 minutes and parents attend EVERY OTHER lesson.  Tuition is $180/semester ($45/month).  It is anticipated that students are committed to complete all 3 years of this curriculum.

If you are interested in any of these classes, please let me know ASAP and help me to spread the word so that we can get enough students, we’re so close!  Want to see a class before you commit? Click HERE to request a sample class.

...Here We Go!

Are you ready for another GREAT year of Let's Play Music and Sound Beginnings classes?!

Fall 2015 Class Schedule:

Classes will begin the week of August 24th.  Fall schedule will be as follows:

Sound Beginnings : Wednesdays  10:00 a.m.

(for ages 2-4 and a parent, younger siblings welcome to attend for a discounted rate)

An additional class may be opened if needed.

First Year Let's Play Music: Available class times include

Wednesdays 1:15 p.m.

Wednesdays 3:15 p.m. 

Wednesdays 4:30 p.m. (FULL)

(for ages 4-6, parents attend every other class)

Second Year Let's Play Music: Thursdays 4:00 p.m.

(students must have successfully completed First Year, parents attend once a month)

Third Year Let's Play Music: Thursdays 5:30 p.m.

(students must have successfully completed First and Second Year, parents attend once a month)

Expanded Third Year Let's Play Music:  Tuesdays 4:00 p.m.

(students must have successfully completed First and Second Year, parents attend once a month)

This Third Year will be a slower paced class, taking two full years to complete the third year of the curriculum.

Mandatory Parent Orientations

Parent Orientations will be held one week prior to the beginning of class.  If you are currently registered (or planning to register), please mark your calendars for the following times:

First Year Parent Orientation: Wednesday, August 19th 7:00 p.m.

Second Year Parent Orientation: Thursday, August 20th  7:00 p.m.

Third Year Parent Orientation:  Tuesday, August 18th 7:00 p.m.

Sound Beginnings Parent Orientation will be held in conjunction with our first class.

Student materials will be distributed at these meeting, parents will receive an overview of the curriculum and studio policies, what to expect in class, how to practice at home and get a tour of my home studio.  This is a mandatory meeting, so if you are unable to attend please contact me ASAP to make alternate arrangements. 

Free Sample Class!

Unsure if you want to register?  Have a friend you want to join class with you?  Come check out my FINAL Free Sample Class of the summer.  Friday, August 7th at 4:00 p.m. in the Saguaro Room at the Main Branch of the Mesa Library.  Class will last approximately 30 minutes.  Hope to see you there!  Please RSVP via email. 

Sample Class at the Mesa Library!

This might be your last chance at a sample class this summer! Come check out Let's Play Music (4-6 year olds) and Sound Beginnings (2-4 year olds) at the Mesa Library- main branch (upstairs in the Saguaro Room). Fall classes are filling up fast, don't miss out! 

It's Spirit Week!

Let's Play Music has officially declared April 20-26th as Spirit Week!  Get details on Corporate contests and prizes HERE!  The first giveaway is Tuesday morning!

For my studio, we are also having our own contests!  Post a photo of your child wearing their LPM or Sound Beginnings T-shirt.....

...practicing....
 

Or anything else LPM inspires you to do!

Be sure to use the hashtags #LPMspiritweek and #ILoveLPM and tell us why you LOVE Let's Play Music.

I will choose two lucky winners (from instagram and facebook) to win a Let's Play Music T-shirt.  Be sure to follow and tag Let's Play Music-Making Musicians on facebook or @shelle_solfege on instagram for additional opportunities to win!

It's Time to Register!

Can you believe it's already that time of year?  Time to register for another great year of Let's Play Music classes.

Fall class times are listed on the Let's Play Music website.  Be sure to search for my name by clicking the Find A Teacher button at the top of the page.

Enrollment instructions can be found HERE.  Don't delay, classes are filling fast!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!

The holidays are upon us! What a glorious time of Thanksgiving, Peace, Love and Joy! There are exciting things happening this holiday season.

A visit from our last foster placement this summer.

First, most of you probably know that our family spent 4 years as licensed foster parents, hosting 10 children during that time.
Our hearts are full of love for these children who are separated from their families or seeking a forever family, especially during the holidays.  We are joining with some friends to collect new, unwrapped toys for children in foster care.  If you are interested in participating, you may bring a donation of a NEW, UNWRAPPED TOY to class anytime prior to December 6th. Gifts for babies (age 0-2) and older children (10+ including teens) are needed most.  For additional information, you may visit this Facebook page or make a donation online via Go Fund Me.  All donations will go to AASK.  Thanks in advance for your generosity.




Looking for a unique gift idea for a toddler or preschooler near you?  Consider the gift of music!

Registration for Silver Buttons has begun and this holiday I'm giving away a month's tuition to 2 lucky families!  Simply share this photo on Instagram or Facebook and tag (be sure to tag me) and then leave a comment on the original post tagging 2 friends who you would enjoy seeing each week in class. Be sure to register for class before December 3 to avoid late shipping fee and ensure materials delivery by Christmas! Silver Buttons will begin January 7. Good luck!

If you haven't yet experienced the joy of Sound Beginnings, come to a sample class on Wednesday 12/3 at 10am (Or ask about an alternate sample class time). My home studio is located in downtown Mesa near Country Club & University.  Just complete this form to register for the free sample class. 

Sample A Class

Curious About Let's Play Music?

Are you a little bit curious about Let's Play Music?  Maybe you'd like the opportunity to meet me and see my studio before registering for classes?  Well, here is your chance! Come on over and see if Let's Play Music is what you are looking for. 

Tuesday, March 25th at 4:00 p.m. or 5:15 p.m. join us in a live 1st Year Let's Play Music class. Get a first hand look at the curriculum, the fun, the PLAY! Your 4-5 year old child will absolutely LOVE this class and I guarantee you will be amazed at all the musical concepts the students are learning.  Not musical? You will learn right along-side your child! 

Current First Year students are invited to BRING A FRIEND to class to share in the fun (Please be sure their parents attend, too!).  Since we are already a full class, you may chose to attend at 4:00 p.m. or 5:15 p.m. which ever class time works best with your schedule.  Both classes will be Blue Bugs Lesson 11, and Sibling Care will be available for both classes.  Please email me to let me know when you are coming and who you are bringing with you. Remember, when your friend registers, you will receive a $15 tuition credit. Thanks for helping me spread the joy of music.

See you soon! 

Fall 2014 Registration is NOW OPEN!

Registration for Fall 2014 classes has officially begun.  If you are a continuing student, or interested in enrolling as a new student, you can save $10 off your registration fee by registering on or before Saturday, March 1.  

New students/families will need to complete this registration form, pay their registration fee ($20 after March 1) and then enroll in their class on the Let's Play Music website.  Simply search my last name "LOVELL" to see available class times.  When you enroll in a class, you will purchase your materials for the class. This will be paid directly to Let's Play Music via a credit card.  You will receive your materials at the mandatory parent orientation meeting held at the beginning of August (approximately 1 week before class begins). 

Returning students/families will simply need to enroll in the class of their choice on the Let's Play Music website.  Your registration fee will be charged to your account and will simply need to be paid prior to the recital.  You should have instructions in your email inbox.  If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

2014 Class Schedule: In an effort to simplify, I am combining my classes to just two days. As always, I try to accommodate student schedules as much as possible, however I also need to take in consideration my family schedule.  Please don't hesitate to ask if there is a change I can make that will help you.  I will do my best. Classes will fill up quickly, if you have a busy schedule reserve your spot TODAY! Available class times are:

Sound Beginnings: 

White Horses (Ages 2-4 and a parent)

(these class times are the easiest to change).

Wednesday 10:00 - 10:30 a.m. 

Wednesday 10:45 - 11:15 a.m.

Tuition: $140/semester ($35/month)

Materials: $30 + tax for AZ residents

Younger siblings are welcome to attend for a discounted fee

First Year Let's Play Music: 

Red Balloons & Blue Bugs (Ages 4-6)

Thursday 1:30 - 2:15 p.m.

Thursday 3:00 - 3:45 p.m.

Tuition: $180/semester ($45/month)

Materials: $88 + tax for AZ residents (sibling set $23 + tax)

No siblings in class, however sibling care is available for a small fee.

Second Year Let's Play Music: 

Green Turtle Shells & Yellow Arrows

Wednesday 5:00 -5:50 p.m.

Thursday 5:00 - 5:50 p.m.

Tuition: $220/semester ($55/month)

Materials: $63 + tax for AZ residents ($38 for siblings)

No siblings in class, however sibling care is available for a small fee

Third Year Let's Play Music: 

Purple Magic & Orange Roots

Wednesday 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Thursday 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Tuition: $240/semester ($60/month)

Materials: $63 + tax for AZ residents ($38 for siblings)

No siblings in class, however sibling care is available for a small fee

Music Education in Early Childhood

5 Reasons to Teach Music to Young Children 

'Music education begins nine months before the birth of the mother'  - Zoltán Kodály 

Extra-curricular activities, like music class, tend to be reserved for school-aged children.  However, research has shown that the benefits of music education can be shared by children of all ages.  Establishing a home where music is heard and music education is valued can benefit even the youngest of children.  Here are the 5 main reasons I teach music to my children:

1. Improved Listening Skills

Music is an aural art; it stresses listening skills. It's no secret that young children love repetition.  My two-year old son asks for the same bedtime song over and over again.  This repetition helps strengthen his listening skills, which I often test by changing a word or phrase or the melody.  Children who participate in music education learn to be good listeners. They are more aware of the various sounds in the environment, and pay better attention in school.  Northwestern University researchers recently showed an association between musical training and better listening skills.  Adults who studied music as a child (even if just for a few years) had enhanced brain responses to complex sounds and were more effective at hearing the fundamental frequency (crucial for speech and music perception and enables recognition of sounds in complex and noisy hearing settings).  

2. Encouraging Language Development

From the instant children are born (and even while still in the womb), they begin decoding sounds and words.  Music education enhances these natural abilities.  Dr. Kyle Pruitt, clinical professor of child psychology at the Yale School of Medicine (and a practicing musician) said "The development of language over time tends to enhance parts of the brain that help process music.  Musical experience strengthens the capacity to be verbally competent."

3. A Harmonious Child

In music class we define harmony as: two or more things played at the same time that sound good together. As we study and participate in music, our awareness of others grows as does a sense of appreciation.  This is especially true as we participate in music ensembles.  Music education helps us become more sensitive and compassionate.  Self-esteem thrives, and we are more able to benefit others and society in general.

4.  We Can Do Hard Things!

One of the greatest lessons children can learn is how to stick-to-it when things get tough.  Learning to play an instrument (or sing) is not easy!  Through music study, students learn the value of sustained effort to achieve excellence.  As children participate in music education (and especially performance), they learn at a young age to overcome the anxiety and fear that naturally occur in everyday life.  The ability to overcome obstacles is valuable in all areas of life.

5. Maximize Cognitive Potential

Our brains are not fully developed at birth, but the experiences we provide thereafter improve the connections and neurological pathways.  Studies have clearly indicated that musical training physically alters the development of the brain.  Music requires both sides of the brain to work together simultaneously, increasing the connective pathways between these two hemispheres. So in essence, music improves the way your brain works, offering maximum cognitive potential.  Linking new information to a melody can also help imprint information on young minds (how did you learn your ABCs?) Music education is actually a means to achieving brighter, happier, more successful students.

  

Bonding Parent to Child

After my last Parent Orientation meeting on Saturday, one mom mentioned that I got a little choked up as I was reading the Let's Play Music vision statement:

Music is wonderful for so many reasons... it enriches our lives, as we perform our confidence increases, practice develops talent, and research has shown that learning music even enhances our intelligence.  With all these wonderful benefits to music education, it's easy to overlook that magical bonding that takes place as two people share in a musical experience together.  And THAT, is the vision of Let's Play Music.  

This amazing bonding opportunity is the reason I chose to send my children to another teacher. My favorite moments in the classroom have been watching my 6 month old smile and try to sing along, while bouncing in my lap, or as I snuggle with my child and sing "May There Always Be Sunshine," or the excitement of a "DO-bomb" shared the first time my son plays the blue-chord independently.  And, I'll admit, I may even get teary eyed as I watch you sharing these tender moments with your children.

   

My friend and fellow Let's Play Music teacher, Bekah Jennings, recently guest posted on the corporate Let's Play Music - Making Musicians blog: here.  She said: "If I can create an environment that strengthens the family by bonding the parent and child, I have succeeded as a teacher. And if the child happens to learn piano along the way--and they all do to varying degrees--that's a bonus!"  

I'm excited to see your children this week as classes begin, but more importantly, I'm excited to see YOU with your children. We are going to have a great time together!  Sure, you're learning how to help your child practice, and maybe even how to play the piano yourself.  But the one thing that is really going to make this year special, is the opportunity you have to strengthen your own relationship with your child.  

Fall class calendars

Fall class calendars are here!  Also, mark your calendars for our spring recital which will be held on Saturday, April 26th at 2:00 pm.  

Don't forget the mandatory parent orientation meetings scheduled for Saturday, August 10th.  This meeting is for parents only, so please make other arrangements for your children.  The parent who will be attending class and practicing with the children should plan to attend this meeting. However, both parents are welcome to attend.  Fall semester materials will be distributed at this meeting.

Third Year Parents 10:00 am

Second Year Parents 11:00 am

First Year Parents 1:00 pm

Congratulations on choosing the very best beginning piano instruction for your children-  Let's Play Music!

Here Comes the Red Balloon!

Although I wasn't originally planning on taking any new students this year, it has come to my attention that there is a need for another class in the west Mesa area.  So....  if you are interested in piano instruction for your child, check out this awesome program!

If you don't know anything about Let's Play Music, you will probably want to attend a sample class to see for yourself.  For information on upcoming sample classes, click here.

Hello!  This is me, Nicci Lovell.  This is my 4th year teaching the Let's Play Music Curriculum.  I love watching the Red Balloons fill with excitement as they learn about the Major Scale, practice baby steps, skips and leaps.  This year, my third child will begin the Let's Play Music curriculum.  Although I teach, nothing can compare to the experience of being a Let's Play Music parent.  I'm so blessed to have the opportunity to participate in this program as a parent AND a teacher.

I teach from my home studio near Country Club & University in downtown Mesa.  This fall, I am only planning on taking ONE new class; thats just enough room for 6-8 students.  Currently this class is scheduled for Tuesday evenings from 5:15 p.m - 6:00 p.m.  This class will fill quickly, so get registered TODAY!

Fortunately for you, there are other teachers in the area who are accepting new students as well.  Let me introduce them as well (Just click their name to contact them about classes).

Bekah Jennings is the teacher who introduced me to Let's Play Music!  She taught my oldest son and will teach #3 as well.  Bekah teaches from her home studio near Alma School & 8th St in Mesa.  Bekah is the West Mesa team leader and also teaches Sound Beginnings.  She will be teaching Red Balloons  at the following times:

Tuesday 1:15 p.m. - 2:00 p.m
Tuesday 3:15 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

 Marie Guthrie joined our team last year, so this is her second year teaching Let's Play Music.  She teaches near Dobson and Guadalupe in west Mesa.  Her Red Balloons classes will be:

Tuesday 3:20 p.m. - 4:05 p.m.
Tuesday 5:10 p.m. - 5:55 p.m.
Tuesday 6:00 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
Thursday 3:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.
Thursday 4:20 p.m. - 5:05 p.m.

Brooke Sutherland is brand new to the west Mesa LPM team, however she has taught piano lessons for several years.  Brooke teaches from her home studio near Dobson and Baseline.  Her Red Balloons classes will be held:

Monday 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.
Wednesday 9:30 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Wednesday 3:15 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Wednesday 4:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sound Beginnings!!!

I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am to be teaching the new Sound Beginnings curriculum!  My 3 youngest children and I (ages 4, 2 and 8 months) have had the privilege of attending these classes for the past year with another teacher.  What fun!!!  We all enjoy the bonding time together, the fun we have in class, and the joy that spills over into our home life.  Take a moment to watch this short video that highlights some of the benefits of early music education.  Then CLICK HERE to REGISTER for classes!

Practicing Dos and Don'ts

In this quick little video, another LPM teacher demonstrates some Practice Dos and Don'ts.

Registration and Orientation

Only 3 1/2 weeks until classes start!  Mark your calendars for our Mandatory Parent Orientation Meeting on Thursday, August 9th:

First Year parents - 6:30 p.m.
Second Year parents - 7:00 p.m.
Third Year parents 8:00 p.m.

Please let me know ASAP if these times will not work for your family.  Student materials will be distributed at this meeting.

Also, remember the $15 tuition or registration credit still applies for any student referrals (no limit to the number of referrals!).  I currently have 3 openings in my Wednesday 3:45 class.  If there is enough interest, I will open registration for Thursday 5:15 p.m. class.

Mrs. Nicci's News

Here is a link to the most recent parent email.   This one is for all students.  Please let me know about the recital ASAP. 

Also, I'm excited to announce that we are expecting another baby in September.  Fun Fun Fun!   I promise to keep you updated with all the details.  :)