Early Childhood

Big Passions Start Small.

From first musical experiences to beginning instruments and lessons, MacPhail offers multiple pathways for children ages 0–9 to explore, learn, and grow through music.

Not sure where to start?

Tell us a little about your child and we’ll help you find the right musical path.

Why Music Matters in Early Childhood

90% of brain development occurs by age 5, and the years that follow are critical for building social-emotional skills and habits that support lifelong learning. Studies show that music supports cognitive development while building a foundation for future musical and academic achievement.

  • Confidence and self-esteem
  • Listening and communication skills
  • Creativity and self-expression
  • Focus, discipline, and resilience

Explore Early Childhood Pathways

Sing Play Learn with MacPhail®

Music classes that grow with your child.

  • Early childhood music classes
  • Curriculum designed to support cognitive development
  • Caregiver participation

Suzuki

An immersive, second-language approach to music learning.

  • Early instrumental study for young children
  • Parent-child learning partnership
  • Structured pathway for long-term musical growth

Beginning Group Classes

A fun, social bridge to learning an instrument.

  • Offered in piano, violin, voice, and ukulele
  • Build foundational music skills in a group setting
  • Prepare for future lessons

Individual Lessons

Personalized instruction tailored to each student.

  • Offered in 35+ instruments including voice
  • One-on-one instruction with expert faculty
  • Customized learning based in your child’s interests

Sing Play Learn® with MacPhail

Sing Play Learn introduces babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and caregivers to music through singing, movement, rhythm, listening, and creative exploration. Classes are designed by early childhood music specialists and grow with children through every stage of development, ages 6 weeks to 8 years.

Ideal for families seeking:

  • First musical experiences
  • Caregiver-child classes
  • Early childhood development through music
  • A joyful introduction to music learning

Suzuki

The Suzuki music education approach treats music learning similarly to language acquisition, emphasizing listening, repetition, encouragement, and parent involvement. Children develop musical skills in a supportive community while building confidence, focus, and discipline.

Available in: Violin, Viola, Cello, Guitar, Piano, Flute, and Harp.

Ideal for families seeking:

  • Strong parent involvement
  • A structured musical pathway
  • Long-term musical growth

Beginning Group Classes

Beginning Group Classes (Ages 6 – 9) introduce children to instruments and voice in a supportive group setting through songs, games, movement, creative activities, and foundational music skills. These classes provide a fun and engaging way to discover musical interests before transitioning to individual lessons.

Available in: Beginning Piano, Beginning Violin, Beginning Voice, Beginning Ukulele

Ideal for families seeking:

  • A first instrument experience
  • Group learning and social engagement
  • Preparation for future lessons
  • Exploration before committing to private instruction

Individual Lessons

When children are ready for focused one-on-one learning, MacPhail offers personalized individual lessons in 35+ instruments and voice, led by expert faculty. Our placement team helps families find the right teacher based on age, goals, location, and schedule.

Ideal for families seeking:

  • Ready for individualized instruction
  • Building on previous music experience
  • Exploring a specific instrument or musical interest
  • Looking for a customized learning experience

Not sure where to start?

Tell us a little about your child and we’ll help you find the right musical path.

All Early Childhood Offerings

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Need help?

Contact our student services team at [email protected] or call 612.321.0100.
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