For Immediate Release October 4, 2005

For More Information Contact: Diane Brown, 317-274-7711 habrown@iupui.edu

Conference Stresses Importance of Exposing Youth Children to Music

INDIANAPOLIS - Whether singing, clapping to the beat, playing an instrument or just whistling a tune, researchers find that making music with children, especially before age 5, is one of the most important things both parents and caregivers can do.

That's why the Indiana University School of Music program at IUPUI is once again sponsoring "It's Time for Music," a music conference for Hoosier educators and caregivers of young children. The conference will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 22 in Room 152 of the Informatics Complex, located at 535 W. Michigan St. on the IUPUI campus.

Music professionals from across the United States will offer information on how music benefits young children and suggest creative ways to incorporate music into daily activities. Attendees will also take home free samples of music and books.

According to Rachel Nardo, professor at the School of Music Program at IUPUI, exposure to music at a young age prepares a child's brain for future learning, both musical and non-musical. For example, one study found that children who received keyboard instruction had increased spatial intelligence, which appears to play an important role in math and science achievement.

"It is developmentally important, both from a biological and a social point of view, for children younger than five years, to be fully involved in high quality musical experiences," says Nardo. "Young brains are wired for music making. If given the opportunity to systematically develop, the neurological paths will be formed for lifelong use."

To register for the conference or for more information, please call Michele Thompson at (317) 274-4000, Ext. 2. Registration is $65 for educators and $35 for college students. The cost includes a music songbook, two audio CDs, and conference notes.

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