Flexible and effective - these are two words we hear often when talking with teachers and parents about the MozartSmart program. Here are a few ideas on how to best utilize the program for your situation:
I taught a MozartMath summer camp in my home that lasted eight weeks. The students came twice a week for an hour each time, and we did two lessons each time we met. At the end of the 8-week course we did a program for the parents and handed out certificates to the children
I taught MozartMath at a local preschool once a week. I would spend 20-30 minutes in each class on a rotation. I adjusted the lessons according to the age of the class.
We only have 30 minutes for music once a week. We have used the sand blocks with other songs, besides the Mozart Smart CD songs. We begin a music lesson listening to a composer and using a conductor stick. It creates quietness and uses their listening skills. We end the class by playing a MozartSmart game. We divide into two groups to reinforce the notes. This creates a togetherness and focuses their attention before departing to a different class.
I also added more singing and some dancing activities to the MozartMath program to motivate and make learning more exciting for them.
My oldest daughter is using Mozart Math with her piano students, two of whom are adults with special needs. I would recommend this program for preschool teachers, music instructors and parents who want to help their kids get a leg up before starting more formal music lessons.
I supplemented the MozartMath lessons with a few lessons on dynamics. This made the students' singing much more expressive and kept their attention. I also added a few songs that go along with the themes the kids are studying in the regular classroom. I had the students put on a program at the end of the semester for their parents and other teachers. The principal felt that this was the strongest music program they had ever had at the school.
MozartMath is a great program!! I used the program at home when my children were preschoolers and kindergarteners. Two days a week we would have' MozartMath Time,' completing one lesson per session.
I teach K-5 elementary music. I use the MozartMath lessons and visual aids to supplement the existing curriculum. I also have the students do rhythm patterns with the Puzzle Activity Books and sand blocks. This is one of the favorite activities!
