Music Discovery Early Childhood Program
Music Discovery is the San Diego Youth Symphony’s newest early childhood music program, for children ages 5-7.
Musical Development and Early Learning Ensemble Activities: Singing, Rhythm, Musical Literacy and Creativity
A solid music foundation sets the stage for a lifetime of musical enjoyment, learning and participation
Music Discovery is SDYS’ newest early childhood program, tailored specifically for children ages 5-7 who have yet to start formal music training or lessons on a specific instrument. The program is designed to support and enhance school readiness, and builds on children’s previous musical experiences, such as participation in ChIMES.
Music Discovery classes focus on the fundamentals of music literacy, rhythmic competency, and learning to sing in tune. The program is designed to be completed in two years, and the curriculum allows ample time for students to work together as a whole ensemble, in small groups, and as soloists.
Both the Year One and Year Two Music Discovery programs mirror the academic year and run from September through May (28 weeks, no class during Thanksgiving, Winter and Spring breaks).
Music Discovery: Year One (September 13, 2023 – May 8, 2024)
(REGISTRATION CLOSED)
Wednesdays, 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
San Diego Writer’s Ink classroom, Liberty Station
Teaching Artist: Mariana Jones
Cost: $650
The first year of the program is focused on musical learning such as note reading, part singing, and rhythmic activities, and introduces beginning terminology in music theory. Orff xylophones, hand drums, and other percussion instruments are used in every class.
Age Requirement: We recommend children are at least age 5 by the start date of the program in September (typically, children who would be going into kindergarten or first grade), but will consider children that will be turning 5 within a couple of months. Maximum age to start this first-year Music Discovery program is 7 years old.
Music Discovery: Year Two* (September 9, 2023 – May 11, 2024)
(REGISTRATION CLOSED)
Saturdays, 3:15 – 4:15 p.m.
Balboa Park, Casa del Prado Room 204
Teaching Artist: Lowri Casimiro
Cost: $650
*It is highly encouraged that students applying for Year Two have completed Year One. For students who were not enrolled in Year One, we will consider applications based on previous music experience, such as at least six months of piano lessons or at least one school year of general music classes.
The second year builds on the skills and concepts learned in Year One, and expands upon them with more in depth music theory, ear training, and ensemble work. Additionally, children are introduced to the families of musical instruments and gain hands-on exposure to orchestral instruments, setting the stage for them to join a musical ensemble, such as the SDYS youth orchestra programs (for ages 7-8+)
Age Requirement: We recommend children are at least age 6 by the start date of the program in September (typically, children who would be going into first grade), but will consider children that will be turning 6 within a couple of months. Maximum age for Year Two Music Discovery program is 7.5 years old.
Registration is now closed for the Year Two 2023-2024 program. If you have any questions, please email music-discovery@sdys.org.
Music Discovery Tuition Assistance is available. If you would like to apply, please either complete the online application, or download the PDF application and submit in-person or via email. If you have any questions, please email swilliams@sdys.org or call 619-233-3232 x302.
Join our Music Discovery interest list and we will keep you informed of future classes via email.
