Click here for a printer-friendly pdf version of the FAQs.
What is the difference between the two classes?
In Erie Jones’ KidsJam Music Ensemble class, kids will learn core music skills, experiment with a variety of instruments and styles of music, and work to develop ensemble (playing together well) in rehearsal and actual performances.
In Tai Shan’s KidsJam Songwriting & Improvisation class, kids will learn skills as songwriters and musicians, exploring ways to develop their lyrics and musical ideas into effective and complete songs.
Where do the classes take place?
The classes take place at Dusty Strings Music School, 3406 Fremont Ave. N, Seattle, 98103.
What are the times, days, and dates of the classes?
KidsJam Songwriting & Improvisation - Tai Shan
Six Tuesdays starting March 9, 4:30‐5:30 p.m.
KidsJam Music Ensemble - Erie Jones
Six Thursdays starting March 11, 4:30‐5:30 p.m.
What is the cost of the classes?
$90 each, or $160 for both classes.
What’s the age range of the classes?
Ages 8‐12.
How do I register my child for the class?
Call us at (206) 634-1662, or come by the store.
What will my child learn in these classes?
The Dusty Strings Music School and its KidsJammin’ program extend the resources, teaching, and music community of Dusty Strings to students of elementary age. Our goal is to provide stimulating, rigorous, and enjoyable real‐world musical learning with definite learning objectives and outcomes, and to promote a lifelong love of and participation in music. We welcome children with or without prior experience.
Students will participate in activities to stimulate their growth as individuals and as a part of performing ensembles. At all phases of learning, playing, and performance, the fundamentals of music will be taught: rhythm, melody, harmony, structure and form, expression, notation, and the creative doorways to improvisation and composing/songwriting.
We will explore voice, body percussion, hand percussion (shakers, claves, bells, etc.), hand drums (djembe, frame drums), pitched mallet percussion (marimba, steel pans, bass bars), fretted stringed instruments (guitar, ukulele, bass, and dulcimer), and select wind instruments (recorder, pennywhistle). Students will learn skills via repertoire from various world musics, American folk music, blues, jazz, country, and other genres.
Students will learn how to write songs using a variety of tools to spark creativity and hone craftsmanship. For example, students may model chord progressions and patterns on songs they like, or improvise words and phrases on themes important to them in their lives (school, homework, pets, siblings, etc.). Students’ work and accomplishments will be presented and celebrated with regular ensemble performances and web uploads of audio recordings.
My child plays an instrument already. Can s/he play it in the group?
We include many different kinds of instruments in our ensembles, and we welcome kids with existing music skills to come and be a part of our groups. Some instruments are more easily incorporated into an ensemble than others. Please contact us to discuss specifics.
My child has never played an instrument before. Can s/he participate in these classes?
KidsJam Music Ensemble: Yes! Erie says, “We use a variety instruments in the Ensemble, including pitched percussion instruments that are very approachable. They allow kids to get on board making music ASAP regardless of experience, and allow experienced kids to learn new musical skills in a fresh and challenging way as well. They can be employed in a great variety of genres of world music, and combine nicely with fretted and other instruments.”
KidsJam Songwriting & Improvisation: Yes! Tai says, “Song-writing is the art of exploring our language and describing what we are feeling and experiencing though music. I have heard 3-year-olds write some of the most beautiful songs by just describing what they are feeling, and I have worked with students as young as 1 year old. My students are writing, performing, and learning how valuable their emotions are. In song-writing there is no right answer; it's about how the students want to express themselves. In this class, beginner students will be working in teams with other students to co-write in an atmosphere that supports creativity.”
Will I need to purchase an instrument for my child to use?
The Music School will provide the basic ensemble instruments required for instruction in class. While no additional instruments will be needed, students are welcome and encouraged to bring instruments from home, with prior approval from the teachers. If your child has instruments s/he would like to bring, please contact us in advance.
For the Songwriting and Improvisation class, Tai Shan will accompany all songs, so there is no need for your child to bring an instrument. However, in later weeks Tai will encourage students who have an interest in playing their songs to bring their instruments with them.