Testing instruments for a year
In the "Musikkindergarten" (musical kindergarten) at the Olten School of Music, children are introduced to music for 75 minutes a week. They try out instruments, sing and do rhythmic exercises, thus acquiring a good foundation for later individual instruction.
How does an instrument feel? How does it sound? For children and parents alike, choosing the right instrument is no easy task. The "Musikkindergarten" at EM Olten fills a gap in this respect, offering a wide range of activities to help children discover the world of music and music school. Teaching takes place in groups of twelve, and is prepared by two instrument teachers and one music and movement teacher. After a successful first pilot year, the "Musikkindergaten" program has been integrated into the music school curriculum. In the 2023/24 school year, four classes will run in parallel. The related costs are covered by the regular budget. "It's a pragmatic project, carried out with the resources available to us", explains school principal Sandra Rupp. "The positive feedback from everyone involved, and also from the parents, makes us very happy!". With the "Musikkindergarten", Olten's music school won the Audience Award for the second time running in the ASEM Best Practice Competition. 
Photo: DR
