Kindermusik International has more than 25 years of experience creating curricula based on new and proven research in child development. The award-winning books, CDs, games, and instruments nurture skills in the whole child: cognitive, physical, social, emotional, and language.

In a Kindermusik class, educators lead a group of parents and their children through joyful activities, using music and movement. Parents learn more about their child's unique developmental process, and the shared learning experience creates a unique bond as the child associates learning with fun, musical play.

The learning process continues at home, guided by specially designed books, CDs, and games.

· Movement and dance activities improve coordination and balance.

· One-on-one parent and child interaction nurtures self-esteem.

· Music-making and music listening activities develop self-discipline, as well as critical and creative thinking skills.

Kindermusik International also provides a license program to teach Kindermusik. On their own, or partnered with community and national organizations and businesses, educators provide classes in many different settings including:

· Private studios

· Music studios

· Music stores

· Public and private schools

· Community centers

· Churches, schools, universities, and YMCAs

· Retirement communities

History

1960s: A group of music educators in West Germany develop "Musikalische Fruherziehung," or music for the young child. The program helps children experience the joy of learning music before beginning formal music instruction. West Germany's community music schools provide the program.

1970s: Due to growing popularity, the program is translated and adapted for American families and renamed Kindermusik.

- Westminster Choir College in Princeton, New Jersey, provides classes for music educators to learn how to teach Kindermusik in the United States.

1980s: Daniel Pratt, a Westminster faculty member and Fulbright Scholar, begins working directly with Music Resources International (MRI), the company that recruits, trains, and supplies Kindermusik educators with curricula.

- Kindermusik is revised for a more culturally diverse audience. The English version of the Kindermusik curricula and teaching method is distributed worldwide.

1990s: MRI moves to Greensboro, North Carolina, and is renamed