The Musikgarten Philosophy

When music and movement are a natural, joyous part of childhood, children benefit greatly in many areas of life. Language development, self expression, memory skills, concentration, social interaction, fine motor skills, listening, problem solving, teamwork, goal setting, and coordination are all impacted by early music and movement education. What’s more, as a child learns to play music, other areas of development are positively influenced, such as, creativity, family bonding, self-esteem, self-confidence, and emotional development .

Musikgarten’s philosophy is steeped in this understanding. Movement and music activities are perfect for child development. Music immerses the child in language, evokes movement, stimulates the brain, and fosters physical coordination — all in a group setting that builds community.

Music Education with Musikgarten

Studies from around the globe have shown that, from a very early age, music lessons can have profound long-term effects that include improved language development, higher standardized test scores in math, improved graduation rates, and even decreased likelihood of drug and alcohol use.

What Musikgarten offers is more than just an easy way to introduce your child to music. Our classes can play a critical role in your child’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development, as well as laying a pathway to musical proficiency. Moreover, Musikgarten provides dedicated time each week when you can bond with your child free from distractions and watch them grow into a confident, independent, and expressive young person.

Musikgarten’s expertly trained and well-supported teachers combine a love of music and an understanding of children and the way they learn into lessons that children and their families love using folk music and fun activities.

Musikgarten Family Materials, including our recordings, special shakers, and scarves, help families replicate the classroom experience at home and even on-the-go.

SUMMER SESSION DATES: June 16 – August 15, 2026

MUSIKGARTEN classes meet for six, weekly, 30 minute classes.

Wednesdays at 10 AM: The Domus Room in Kings Beach
Wednesdays at 1 PM: Tahoe Connection for Families 924 Incline Way, Incline Village, NV
Fridays at 10 AM & 11 AM: Sierra Community House Truckee Office “Fireplace Room”
Saturdays at 10 AM: Truckee Tahoe Airport Community Room

Age: Birth to 5 years, with a caregiver

Instructor: Rita Whitaker Haun, a professional cellist with over 40 years music teaching experience.

Contact: All Summer 2026 classes are currently full with waitlist. For more information about Musikgarten or to register for the waiting list, please contact Rita at ritahaun@juno.com.

Rita Whitaker Haun

Rita Whitaker Haun is a professional cellist with over 40 years of experience teaching public and private school music for ages birth to 70.