[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]As a licensed Kindermusik educator for nearly 14 years now, Katherine Knight is a rising star in the Kindermusik studio owner community. We admire her not only for her vision, her business savvy, and her creativity in the classroom, but also for her determination, courage, and never-quit attitude. She has a heart for others, demonstrated in part by her service on the Partnership of Kindermusik Educators Board. It is a delight to introduce you to Katherine and her business, Melody Magic Music Studio, which has been making music and magic for children and families in the Richmond, Virginia area since 2003.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What do your Kindermusik kids call you?
KK: Ms. Katherine
TC: Tell us a little about yourself. What are some of your hobbies?
KK: Outside of Kindermusik, my world is my family. I have a wonderfully supportive husband and four amazing children. I love that my job allows me to be passionate about my work AND have time with my family – from basketball and soccer games to musical theater performances to family game night. I’m there for all of it.
TC: What do you love most about being a Kindermusik educator?
KK: Oh where to start! There are so many things I love about teaching Kindermusik. First and foremost, I love bringing a smile to the faces of my students. Their joy brings me joy. I love being part of their lives, helping them explore and develop into creative, confident, happy little humans! And I love facilitating their growth and learning. The power of music is endless, and Kindermusik classes bring it all together. It’s quality bonding time between a parent (or grandparent!) and child, opportunities to play and learn (at the same time!), and endless experiences that elicit delight! What could be better? That’s why I love it.[/vc_column_text][vc_video link=”https://vimeo.com/199099668″][blockquote cite=”- Katherine Knight”]”It’s much more than “just a class” – it’s more to me, and it’s more to them. It’s part of who I am, and my families can feel that.”
[/blockquote][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What’s your favorite Kindermusik dance to lead?
KK: I love leading all circle dances. The social interaction that happens during a circle dance is just amazing. You can see it written all over the faces of the children. They feel part of something, part of a group that is making the dance happen! We try to do a circle dance in just about every class because of the impact it has – even on the babies! Babies love to look around at their little group of friends while being held by their grown-up. And then you fast forward to the toddler classes, where the kids are experiencing patterns and sequencing, at the same time that they are engaged in a social activity. It’s just an amazing process that has so much to offer.
TC: If you had to name just one secret to success in the Kindermusik classroom, what would it be?
KK: Acceptance. Just like adults, every child is different. And in my classroom, every child is accepted, appreciated, and LOVED. Every. Single. One. My students know they are loved. And when a child knows they are loved, magic can happen!
TC: What inspired you to start Melody Magic Music Studio?
KK: I wanted to combine my two loves – music and children! Before Kindermusik I taught music in the elementary schools. Upon the birth of my first child, I left the school system, but really wanted to continue bringing music to young children. Kindermusik is the perfect fit for me.
TC: What do you feel has made your studio business a success?
KK: I have been very intentional about growing my studio and making it a success. I have “studied”, learning how to reach new students as well as learning how to communicate my studio values to my current students. It’s a lot of things to keep track of, and you have to be very organized. I have tried new things, kept good records about what works (and what doesn’t!), and kept my eye on my goals. You can’t be afraid to reach for your goals.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]TC: What are some of the goals you have for your business?
KK: I would love to reach more children and expand what we offer. My studio has grown with my family. It started with the birth of my first child, and now I have four wonderful children. And my studio has grown from a small studio to a Maestro studio. I have always taught Kindermusik, and last year we added piano, and this year we actually added some children’s yoga! I would love to move to a bigger space that can handle an expanded schedule and that has a few key features that I know my Kindermusik families would love, such as an open play area and a dedicated space to relax while connecting with other families. Basically… a home away from home! J
TC: If you could share one tip with a new Kindermusik educator, what would it be?
KK: I think the key to teaching Kindermusik is to be prepared. Know your lesson plan in and out. Know the songs by heart. Think about how you will transition from one activity to the next. If you put in the efforts to be as prepared as possible, you mind and heart are “free” to connect with the children and families in front of you, helping them get the most out of the experience.
TC: What’s the most touching thing that’s ever happened to you as a Kindermusik teacher?
KK: I work very hard to bring the best possible program I can to my students. And when a parent lets me know what an impact I have had on their child, it melts my heart. It makes me realize I am doing what I am supposed to be doing. I got a note from a parent recently that said, “I am so lucky that I found you and your studio after my child was born. It has been the best thing for our whole family. I am proud that he has grown up in your studio and learned so much from participating there. Our house would be much different without you and it! You are a huge influence in our house.” That’s why I do what I do and give it my all.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]TC: What makes your studio such a special place?
KK: My studio is a special place because everyone is family. We are a community. Friends are made during classes. I, too, make friends during our classes! I know our families. And they know me! When families walk in the door, they are comfortable. They can relax. They are among friends. It’s much more than “just a class” – it’s more to me, and it’s more to them. It’s part of who I am, and my families can feel that.
Shared by Theresa Case who has an award-winning Kindermusik program at Piano Central Studios in Greenville, South Carolina.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]