Little Stars

“Early years settings and schools should start from the premise that all children are musicians – embracing music in their provision, sparking children’s musical curiosity and developing their ability and interest.” – The power of music to change lives – A National Plan for Music Education, June 2022

NMPAT has been running classes for children under five for over 25 years, and the new National Plan recognizing the importance of these earliest years, is warmly welcomed.  Little Stars is the name given to the NMPAT department which provides opportunities for children aged 0 to seven years old.

Every child is born with musical ability and our classes aim to develop their interests, skills and knowledge.  Musical experiences in the first few years of childhood are important for future development, building, amongst other things, their sense of fun, language and listening skills, physical co-ordination and personal, social and emotional growth. Music is an essential part of being human.

‘Little Stars’ music classes take place at NMPAT on the Kettering Road in Northampton, and at Saturday Centres across the county.  Classes at Kettering Road are 45 minutes long and are well-planned and inclusive – a mix of noticing and building on what children can already do, and adding in new ideas, skills and concepts, all practised over time through singing, movement and use of appropriate percussion instruments and sound makers.  The child, and having fun together, is at the heart of all ‘Little Stars’ provision.

Families are welcome to try a session before committing to paying for a whole term.   Little stars sessions taking place at NMPAT cost £75 per term. Further details on subscriptions costs, how to make a payment, and the financial support that may be available for families in need, can all be found on our payments page.

This class is for babies up to around 9 months and offers a general introduction to the pleasures of music-making with your baby, using songs, rhymes and activities which can also be enjoyed at home.

Babies experience the comforting sensation of their mother’s heartbeat whilst in the womb and from birth, find security in rhythm as they are rocked, patted and bounced, building the bond between parent and child.  The classes offer a multi-sensory experience using touch, sight, smell and sound as babies explore their musical environment.

If you are interested in a class for babies under 9 months old, please email office@nmpat.co.uk

There is no group running currently, but if there is enough interest, it may be possible to re-start this class.

This class is for children aged approximately 9 months to 4 years old, to attend with their adult.

Time for children to socialise and develop communication and language skills while exploring the musical elements through songs and rhymes, movement, props, sound makers and percussion instruments, all with their grown-up.

Children may wander or sit, be fearless or cautious – the class leaders understand and enjoy children participating in music making in different ways.

Do come and try a free session. Classes have a maximum number of 10 children.

In September 2025 we will run a class for children, aged 5-7 years old, wishing to incorporate string playing into their early music development.  The course is progressive so we would encourage children to start at the beginning in September, although new children are welcome to join at any point throughout the year.

The sessions are designed to give children the opportunity to learn a musical instrument in a fun and enjoyable environment, whilst building a foundation in basic music skills, such as pitch, rhythm and pulse, and learning to play together in a group.

NMPAT will provide a violin free of charge for children participating in the sessions.  Children will be encouraged to take their violin home and practice a short task between sessions.

This is an independent class and, once the child is settled, their adult is asked to sit in a nearby waiting area (wifi code available, as well as toys and books for any waiting siblings).

NMPAT offer:

  • the longest running early years classes in Northamptonshire, established for more than 2 decades, hosted in the home of the Northamptonshire County Youth Orchestra
  • a committed team of trained Early Years teachers
  • free on-site car parking
  • level access and accessible toilets
  • baby changing facilities
  • dedicated classrooms well-equipped with appropriate percussion instruments, props and sound makers
  • age and activity appropriate group sizes
  • large waiting area with toys, books and free wifi
  • we are an inclusive organisation; keen to discuss accommodating participants with additional needs

And beyond ‘Little Stars’ … built in progression routes including instrumental lessons, composing and performing opportunities – something for everyone including orchestras, jazz and rock bands, wind bands, string ensembles, brass bands, choirs, drama opportunities and much more!

Saturday Music and Arts Centres

Brackley and Cheney
Daventry
Duston (Northampton)
Holloway (Northampton)
Kettering
Nene Valley (Oundle)
Towcester
Wellingborough
Y-Not Arts
Youth Theatre