
Give your child the best start in music.
Musical awakening for ages 3-4 — your child builds ear training, rhythm, and confidence through play, well before choosing an instrument.
École de musique du Marché offers musical awakening classes for children ages 3-4 in Montreal. Sound, rhythm, and instrument exploration through play at 288 rue Jean-Talon Est (Villeray, near Jean-Talon metro). Ideal preparation before private lessons. From $30/lesson, no contract.
4,200+ students
since 2016
400+ active
currently
24 teachers
academically trained
Italmelodie Heritage
since 2016
Critical Window for Musical Development
Ages 3-4 represent a sensitive period for auditory and rhythmic development. Early musical exposure during this window builds foundational skills that shape lifelong musical ability and appreciation.
Gordon, Music Learning Theory, 2003
Accelerates Language and Social Skills
Group music activities at a young age improve phonological awareness, vocabulary growth, and cooperative behaviour. Children who participate in structured musical play show faster language development.
Moreno et al., Cerebral Cortex, 2009
Builds Confidence Through Play
Musical awakening uses games, movement, and exploration rather than formal instruction. Children build confidence and self-expression in a pressure-free environment that feels like play, not school.
Trevarthen & Malloch, Communicative Musicality, 2009

Discover
- Discovering sounds: high, low, loud, soft
- Rhythm games with simple percussion
- Songs and nursery rhymes with movement
- Instrument exploration: piano, xylophone, tambourine
- Active listening and instrument recognition
Explore
- Tempo and time signature concepts
- Melodic games: singing and reproducing melodies
- Introduction to instrument families
- Body movement and rhythmic dance
- Guided group music creation
Create
- Preparation for choosing an instrument
- Reading simple rhythms with visual symbols
- Composition games: creating original melodies
- Listening to diverse musical genres
- Advanced ear training development
Practical info

Marianne Paquin
“This music school is fantastic! The classes are engaging, well-structured, and truly inspiring. The teachers are not only talented but also patient and supportive.”
Niranjan S.
4 months ago
“Just talking on the phone makes you wanna do it, very informative and kind. Patient and very informative. Amazing. Johnny the best.”
Khaled A.
1 month ago
“Roxane is an exceptional teacher: talented, caring, and inspiring. After a break of more than 20 years, she gave me back my confidence and joy in playing.”
Axelle B.
4 months ago
Last updated: February 2026
