"Music is the universal language of mankind."  — Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

As winter loosens it grip and signs of spring dot the New Mexico landscape, so too do opportunities for children and their families. Beginning March 30th and running through October 2024, the Kids Sing Along series offered through Queen Bee Music Association in Santa Fe returns by popular demand with an abundance of hands-on classes for children, featuring early childhood programming and musical offerings ideal for kids ages 0-5.

The importance of music, especially at an early age, has long been recognized by child development experts. Children’s Health, the first hospital in the United States to offer music therapy, states the benefits are many: Music can reduce anxiety and stress, ease pain and discomfort, promote positive moods and emotional regulation, encourage bonding and connection, and improve memory and cognition. Add to this list music’s ability to positively affect children during times of transition while promoting coping skills and mental well-being, one understands the value of resources available to youngsters through Queen Bee, founded in 2019.

The staff and musicians at Queen Bee bring a wealth of talent, experience, and enthusiasm expressed through a variety of learning activities. Their love of all things musical and a mission “to support all musicians, no matter their age, aspiration, or ability,” is evident in every interaction and shapes Queen Bees class offerings.

Artistic and Educational Programming Director Brian Nelson, known as “Teacher B,” and Sarah-Jane Helvey, lead the Kids Sing Along programs. Nelson, a graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston, has played music for 25 years and is well-versed in a variety of musical instruments and styles. He brings that knowledge and passion into the classroom.

Helvey, a musician, mother, writer, and clown, has worked with the social clown company Wise Fool since 1996, and Clowns Without Borders, bringing comic relief to war torn countries in Latin America. Both she and Nelson relish the opportunity to bring music to the hearts and ears of local children who attend their weekly classes.

Kids Sing Along sessions kick off each Monday from 10:30-11:15 at Queen Bee’s home base at 1596 Pacheco Street and feature lively music and games with Sarah-Jane. She also offers a class at Railyard Park every Wednesday from 10:30-11:15.

Teacher B stops by the Caterpillar Club at Embudo Valley Library on select Wednesdays each month to engage children in free early childhood programming.

On the last Saturday of each month beginning March 30th, families can partake in a rollicking time of song with Teacher B at the Randall Davey Audubon Center (next to the new Nature Discovery Center), from 10:30-11:15. Please note carpooling is encouraged as parking is limited. For inclement weather, check out Queen Bee's Instagram account @queenbeemusica for cancellations.

Beginning the 2nd Sunday of June and running monthly through October, families are invited back to Reunity Resources Farm for a morning of movement and music from 10:45-11:30. This class will take place next to the farm stand, weather permitting.

All in-person Kids Sing Along classes are walk up and free for all, with donations gladly accepted. A caregiver is required for each child in attendance. These weekly classes are offered in collaboration with the Railyard Park Conservancy, Randall Davey Audubon Center, Reunity Resources, and Embudo Valley Library.

For families wishing to expand their musical journey, Queen Bee offers jam sessions and summer camps, as well as group classes for children and adults. From guitar to percussion, ukulele to mandolin, or singing to songwriting, participants meet for an hour once a week. Visit queenbeemusicassociation.org to learn more or to register.