Award-winning pre-school music classes have returned to the district thanks to two community-minded mums.
Harpenden mums Kate Peck and Melissa Bridge were left disappointed when Monkey Music, a music club for babies and pre-school children, closed in early 2017.
Nearly a year later, they have decided pick up the mantle and run the sessions themselves to bring harmony back to local families.
Each class is tailored to nurture different age-related milestones and there are classes for youngsters from three months, from 12 months, two and three-year-olds, and three and four-year-olds.
Catchy music, percussion instruments, visual props and boundless energy are used to provide children with the opportunity to experiment and make tunes of their own.
Founder Angie Coates said: “Harpenden has a special place in my heart, the Harpenden Musicale was the first place to run Monkey Music classes outside London and was the very place I first experienced the joy of music education as a child.
“I am very excited to hand over to Kate and Melissa, two Monkey Music devotees who enjoyed sharing the social and sensory experience of making music with their children at our classes.”
Kate added: “We are thrilled to be able to bring back Monkey Music to our home town and share the magic and enjoyment we experienced with our own children to families in Harpenden and St Albans.”
Melissa agreed: “It’s not only fun and formative, it’s also a great way of making new friends.
“I made so many lasting friendships at the St Albans classes with my first born when I first moved to the area.”
There are more than 200 Monkey Music classes all over the UK and it has won numerous awards, including the Best National Pre-Schooler Development Activity 2010 and Best Toddler Development Class 2008.
Everyone is invited to an open day and taster session on January 8. There will be balloons, goodie bags, and healthy snacks to accompany the musical fun. Find out where the taster sessions are taking place across St Albans and Harpenden by contacting 01582 767146 or harpenden.stalbans@monkeymusic.co.uk
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