'Sesame Street' music event for children is today

COEUR d'ALENE - Young children will have an opportunity to experiment with musical instruments today during Northwest Music Academy's "Sesame Street Music Works."

Beginning at 10:30 a.m., children ages 3-and-a-half to 6 are invited to partake in the free, interactive session where they can satisfy their musical curiosities through hands-on introductions to various instruments. Trumpets, violins, snare drums and more will be available.

The event is part of a national effort sponsored by the International Music Products Association in conjunction with Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit educational organization behind "Sesame Street."

Northwest Music Academy's goal with the "Sesame Street Music Works" program is to provide activities and events where young children will experience the joy of actively being engaged with music and musical instruments.

"We are all born musical," said Tina Tomczyk, Northwest Academy of Music director. "This program is a fun-filled, informative introduction to instruments and music-making. Scientific studies have proven that music study increases children's ability to express themselves emotionally in positive ways, helps them focus and follow through on tasks more diligently and increases overall IQ."

"Sesame Street Music Works" participants will be given a free "Sesame Street" DVD. School groups should call to schedule a time. Northwest Academy of Music is located at 3700 N. Government Way.

"By planting seeds and developing an interest in music at an early age, the program is very effective in getting children involved [in making music]," said Michelle Heidlebaugh, director of music education at Menchey Music.

Info: 667-6200