At Platform C, music is much more than reading notes and singing songs, it is a way to develop yourself, have fun and grow together. A great example of this is the Orion Choir, led by our enthusiastic teacher Laetitia. Here children discover how much fun singing is, learn to work together and develop their musicality in a playful, inspiring way.
About lecturer Laetitia
Laetitia grew up in a musical family and knew at an early age that she wanted to go into music. After studying flute and school music, she worked at several music schools and eventually found her niche at Platform C in Amstelveen. She has enjoyed teaching here for many years.
"I never had the ambition to go on stage," she explains. "My goal was always: to pass on music to others."
In addition to her instrumental lessons, Laetitia immersed herself in the Kodály method, a way of teaching music that focuses on singing, movement and ear training. She also uses this approach with the Orion Choir.
Using hand gestures, the children learn to recognize tones and sing by ear. "When I work that way," she says, "they sing much purer than when I just pre-sing it and accompany it with the piano."
More than just singing
The Orion Choir is not just about beautiful singing, but mostly about musical development. Classes begin with playful warm-up exercises, followed by songs from many different countries.
"Many songs involve a movement game," Laetitia explains. "This is sometimes a dance, but more often a combination of singing and rhythmic movement: for example, clapping, stomping or tapping a pattern with cups. In this way, children practice their hearing and motor skills naturally. This is not only good for their musical development, but also helps with other things related to learning."
Every child is welcome
Laetitia makes sure every child feels seen and heard: "Some children are more shy, others very expressive. I think it's important that everyone can grow in their own way. "The best moment is when it all works out: when the choir sings a beautiful song together, with all the movements involved and big smiles on their faces."
The choir usually performs once or twice a year. These are always special moments when children can proudly show off what they have learned.
Singing as a supplement and introduction to music
The Orion Choir is designed for children between the ages of 6 and 12. Enrollment is possible throughout the year. New children can take a free trial lesson to experience how much fun it is to sing together.
For children already taking an instrumental course at Platform C, participation in the Orion Choir is also free. But also for children who do not yet play an instrument, the choir is an accessible and fun way to get acquainted with music.
"Singing is actually the basis of making music," Laetitia explains. "When you sing, you really learn to understand music from the inside out. You hear what is happening, you feel the rhythm and learn to listen to yourself and to others."
Do you want your child to sing along? Sign up here for a trial lesson with Platform C's Orion Choir and discover how much fun singing together can be!
