Music has a magical way of bringing people together, catching their attention, and aiding in the development of meaningful memories! All through the curriculum, the children are engaged in listening to and participating in music from around the world, with a variety of rhythms and instruments, and with the intention of deepening their interest in music and in learning!

At the Toddler and Primary levels informal and formal music education occurs through singing, listening to music, introduction of instruments, introduction of musical notation, and exploration of sound. Students at Namaste have musical experiences spread throughout their week. At the Primary level, the music specialist leads circle time once a week bringing in classroom instruments, scarves, songs, finger plays and movement activities. Classroom guides incorporate songs in daily circle times, and for transitions. There are a set of Montessori bells in each Primary classroom, and a curated playlist of instrumental music.

Elementary students build on their primary foundation and engage in a rich and creative music program that is integrated into the daily happenings of classroom life. They have opportunities to sing, read music, and compose using instruments available in the classroom environment. Using teaching methods from various cultures as well as music from around the world, students are part of a holistic musical experience. The synthesis of known best practices all center around experiencing and exploring musical concepts and expression by creating, performing and responding to music – the essential artistic processes.

Elementary students at Namaste have general music classes twice a week with a music specialist. They learn a variety of musical skills through singing, movement, playing classroom instruments, listening, and discussion. The youngest students learn body scale, call and response singing, steady beat, identifying instruments in the orchestra, and begin reading rhythmic notation. Older students learn complicated rhythms, complex time signatures, and a wider range of notes. Older students are also introduced to recorder and prepare pieces for annual performances. Students also have the option of taking private piano lessons with Will Tobin during the school day (for an additional fee). Field trips to Cornell and Ithaca College music programs, and guest presenters round out the elementary music curriculum.

All Primary and Elementary students participate in a winter concert and spring festival where they have the opportunity to perform and share their efforts with the community!

Jennifer Lawrence Birnbaum has been the music teacher at Namaste Montessori for well over a decade. She has music education degrees from Ithaca College and Columbia University Teachers College. In addition, she’s Level II certified the Kodaly method, which greatly influences her classroom teaching with its emphasis on sound before symbol, and the use of international folk melodies.

Will Tobin is a local pianist and graduate of University of the Arts and Bill Evans Piano Academy.  He runs a full time private piano studio for students of all ages in Ithaca.  His teaching philosophy is to balance the fundamentals with creativity and helping each student develop a personal love for music.