Colourstrings Kindergarten

Colourstrings is a fully integrated approach to music education for young children, which was developed by Hungarian-born violinist and pedagogue Dr Géza Szilvay.  Based firmly on Kodály principles, this approach starts in Music Kindergarten, taking the young child on a wonderful adventure through the world of music, where their sense of pitch and rhythm are developed alongside the training of the inner ear. The younger they start, the better.

Basic musical concepts such as high/low, loud/soft, fast/slow are introduced but always within the framework of age-appropriate games and activities. Pulse is established, upon which rhythm skills are developed.  Maracas, claves, bells and drums (and with older groups tuned percussion in the form of chime bars) all play a part in the weekly sessions; singing, rhymes, games, dancing, movement to music and listening all form a predictable and satisfying routine that children get to know and love.

Colourstrings Music Kindergarten classes are suitable for children from 17 months to 6 years: children under three are accompanied by an adult. There are special baby groups for those below sixteen months old.

Repertoire consists of British folk songs such as Baa, Baa Black Sheep, Sing a Song of Sixpence and all the old favourites, as well as songs from the wider European tradition. The core Colourstrings repertoire draws from the simplest examples and gradually works towards more complex tone sets and rhythm patterns. Favourite songs from the kindergarten  reappear like old friends in the Colourstrings instrumental tutor books, bringing a strong motivational aspect to the instrumental learning.

Babies 6-16 months

Toddlers 17mos-3yrs

… and  on to
Musicianship...

Reception to Y2