In the earliest moments of childhood, every sound is a discovery, and at SFCM, Smart Start is turning that musical play into the building blocks of lifelong learning.

In the age 3 Class, Aletta is learning foundational musical skills such as tempo, pitch, and volume. She loves going to the class, as does her mother, Lina Paek. “I appreciate how rhythm, volume, and speed is demonstrated,” Paek continued. “Our favorite experience has been Lauren Urroz, Aletta’s teacher. She is so amazingly talented. We love all her songs and how she involves the kids and various instruments.”

Teacher Lauren Urroz leads a Smart Start class.

Part of SFCM’s Early-Childhood Pre-College Program, Smart Start is designed for little maestros to awaken a love for music. “Smart Start was developed with science-backed research to deliver rich, developmental benefits for all children, in their earliest possible stages of learning," said Keelin Davis, the associate director for Pre-College and Early Childhood at SFCM. 

The positive impact of music education on a child's brain development has long been studied.  Neuroscientist, soprano and SFCM faculty Indre Viskontas's white paper "Music for Every Child" explores the proven benefits of early music education academically, socially, and emotionally as a child develops, in some cases even translating into influencing careers in adulthood. The Smart Start curriculum was developed by the Royal Conservatory of Music.

In the age 3 class Aletta and Natalie work with teacher Lauren Urroz.

Classes are on the weekend and run about 45 minutes in length catered to a child's age, from just a few months old up to age three. "Lessons are filled with fun and engaging activities that guide the child through foundational music principles while fostering cognitive development," Davis added. The program runs for about fifteen weeks from January to May. At age four and above children can then apply to the next level in the Early Childhood program. 

Smart Start student Aletta.

"One of the great benefits in working with students this young is that these classes also provide parents with the opportunity to participate in activities with their child," Davis said. This setting allows more time for parents to bond with their child through music while supporting their development. "Students develop skills in these classes that support their progress in studying an instrument either now or in the future," Davis added. 

SFCM launched its Early Childhood Program in 2021 and in just a few years has seen huge growth in popularity. "Providing an environment where students are inspired to share their music with others is a great success," Davis added. Teachers in the program also note the changes in students' confidence, "Parents often say their child has grown not only musically but also in how they communicate with their peers and other teachers in their lives.”

Smart Start curriculum consists of weekly classes, delivered by specially trained music teachers.

No prior experience is needed to join Smart Start. While many children eventually pick up an instrument, the program’s true goal is much more simple, giving young children a strong musical foundation and a spark of inspiration that can last for years to come.

Learn more about SFCM Smart Start program, applications are open now!