Harmonies, a music education business operated by the Kumon Group, offers piano, violin, and singing lessons for a wide range of ages from 3 years old to adult, with approximately 10,000 students participating each year. Approximately 10,000 students participate in the program each year.
Curriculum Features
Age-specific step-by-step learning:
Music Play Course" for 3-5 year olds: Students learn the basics of music while having fun through games to feel rhythm and basic exercises using simple instruments (cowbell and recorder).
Basic Course for 6-12 year olds: Balanced practice in music reading, music theory, and solo playing, as well as instrumental skills. Special emphasis is placed on "ensemble practice" to develop the ability to harmonize with other students.
Applied and Preparatory Courses" for 13 years old and up: For students aiming for music colleges, we provide practice instruction on difficult pieces and preparation for entrance exams, as well as opportunities to learn the fundamentals of composition.
Practical presentation opportunities: Each classroom holds a seasonal "recital" where students gain experience performing in front of an audience. Once a year, a "National Competition" is held, providing an opportunity for outstanding students to gather from all over the country to compete. Past competitions have featured high-level performances, such as an elementary school orchestra performing a Beethoven symphony.
Cooperation with parents: A "Home Practice Support Guide" is distributed to help parents provide appropriate support for student practice. Once a month, a "Parents' Information Meeting" is held to provide advice on students' progress and practice methods.
Strengths of the teaching system: All instructors are graduates of music academies or have equivalent qualifications, and are hired after undergoing Kumon's unique "teaching method training. Based on "individualized instruction," Kumon creates a curriculum tailored to each student's abilities and goals, which has been highly praised by parents who say, "The path to achieving our goals is clear. In addition, the school actively conducts research on the "relationship between music and learning ability," and is committed to scientific verification of educational effects, presenting data such as "learning the piano improves math calculation ability.