Music for the Bear-y Young students dance and play instruments during a lesson last week. New rounds of the 20- week course will begin in February. Photo by Chris Simon Lori Horner knows her daughter is having a bear-y good time in music lessons.

Thanks to the Music for the Bear-y Young beginner program, Lori's five-year-old daughter Allie has been well prepared for playing tunes on the piano, and has developed a distinct love of the artistic genre.

"It definitely has provided a great foundation for continuing music lessons," said Lori. "It has made the first year of music lessons very smooth. The rhythm and notes values were already set in place. It's more fun for her, because she's not bogged down with the details. It's neat that the program is not specific to piano, it really provides a basis for music of any kind."

Allie recently completed the 20-week course, which teaches musical basics to children ages three to six. The kids learn pitch, rhythm, singing technique and musical notes. There are also several interactive and fun activities planned for the kids each week, including drawing, story time and dancing.

"Whichever musical instrument they choose, they are prepared to start learning the notes," said piano teacher Emily Mudde. "They'll already know a lot of the theory behind the music. It's also a good chance to use their imagination. Even if they're not that musical, they enjoy the class. It's very interactive, which is great for little kids. They have a lot of energy at that age. We do some quiet activities, but they also move around a lot."

Mudde has been teaching the program at her Big Bay Point home since last spring. About 10 children are currently enrolled, with classes taking place after school, for one hour per week.

"This is actually the second program I've run," said Mudde. "It helps prepare them for school and to listen. I've noticed some have a really good ear for music already."

The program was initially designed by a local piano teacher about 25 years ago.

Other parents also suggest the program has been quite beneficial.

"He's so excited to come to this class," said Jenn Dent, whose three-year-old Damien has been attending for the last two months. "I thought it would be too much for him, but I'm really impressed. He watches Little Einsteins, and will compare that particular (television) show to what he's learned."

New sessions will begin on Jan. 31 and Feb. 1. A free demonstration class is also taking place on Jan. 29. For more information, or to register, call 705-431-7531.