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Have you ever heard the term “ear training” and wondered what it means—or if your homeschooled child really needs it? In this episode of the Music in Our Homeschool podcast, Gena Mayo breaks down this essential skill for budding musicians of all ages.

You'll discover how ear training develops a musician’s ability to hear and identify musical elements like pitch, rhythm, intervals, and chords—all without needing to read music first. Gena shares how she uses playful listening activities with preschoolers, from identifying animal calls to recognizing musical instruments, and how this early work builds into more advanced skills like sight singing, dictation, and chord recognition in her music theory courses.

Whether you're teaching music to your preschool or elementary students or helping your teen prepare for college-level theory, this episode will show you how ear training makes a huge impact. And don’t worry—you don’t need to be a music expert to help your child thrive!

Tune in and learn how to start building this skill right from your homeschool!

Mentioned in this episode:

• Beginning Music Theory for Elementary
• Beginning Music Theory for Teens
• Advanced Music Theory for Teens
• KinderBach prepatory piano and music theory for Preschoolers

Find links to all resources mentioned in this episode here: https://musicinourhomeschool.com/what-is-ear-training/

Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and leave a 5-star review and comment if you liked this episode! Find all courses at https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com ,free music lessons here: https://MusicinOurHomeschool.com/FreeMusicLessons , and lots more links here: https://linktr.ee/genamayo !

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When is the right time to start music lessons for your child? 🤔
In this helpful episode of the Music in Our Homeschool podcast, veteran music educator and homeschooling mom of 8, Gena Mayo, walks you through the best starting age for six of the most popular beginner instruments: piano, violin, guitar, drums, recorder, and ukulele.

Discover why readiness—not just age—matters most when choosing the right time to begin lessons. Gena shares key developmental signs to look for, practical advice for choosing the right instrument, and her top curriculum recommendations like KinderBach, Recorder Time with Mr. Jerry, and Guitar Time with Ben. Whether you have a budding toddler musician or a teen ready to dive deep, you’ll gain clarity and confidence to make the best decision for your homeschooler.

🎵 Instruments covered:

• Piano: Ideal starting age & physical readiness
• Violin: How 3-year-olds can thrive with the Suzuki method
• Guitar: Why 10 is the sweet spot—and what to try first
• Drums: How to start rhythm early—even at age 3!
• Recorder: Breath control, fine motor skills & music reading
• Ukulele: The perfect stepping stone to guitar

Whether your child is musically curious or already asking for lessons, this episode is filled with encouragement and practical tips. Remember, it’s never too early—or too late—to foster a love of music at home.

📩 Have questions about what course is best for your child? Email Gena at Gena@MusicinOurHomeschool.com.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a fellow homeschool mom!

Find links to all resources mentioned in this episode here: https://musicinourhomeschool.com/best-age-private-music-lessons/

Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and leave a 5-star review and comment if you liked this episode! Find all courses at https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com ,free music lessons here: https://MusicinOurHomeschool.com/FreeMusicLessons , and lots more links here: https://linktr.ee/genamayo !

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Who was Antonín Dvořák, and why is his music a perfect fit for homeschool music appreciation?

In this Composer Spotlight episode of the Music in Our Homeschool podcast, Gena Mayo—homeschool mom of eight and veteran music educator—introduces you to the rich, emotional, and folk-inspired music of Czech composer Antonín Dvořák. Whether your kids are already fans of classical music or just getting started, Dvořák's melodies provide a fun and accessible way to learn music appreciation.

Gena shares the story of Dvořák’s humble beginnings in Bohemia, his rise to international fame with the help of Johannes Brahms, and his love for folk music and trains. You'll hear how he inspired American composers, brought national identity into classical music, and created unforgettable pieces like the New World Symphony, Song to the Moon, and his powerful Cello Concerto in B Minor.

You'll also hear fun facts about Dvořák’s life, ideas for hands-on homeschool activities (like drawing to music or dancing to his Slavonic Dances), and simple ways to integrate his music into your curriculum.

💡 Whether you’re looking to fulfill fine arts requirements or simply want to introduce your children to meaningful music, this episode is full of inspiring ideas to bring your homeschool to life through sound.

🎶 Access free lessons and use the 25% coupon code at:
https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com
More freebies: https://musicinourhomeschool.com/freebies

Find links to all resources mentioned in this episode here: https://musicinourhomeschool.com/who-is-antonin-dvorak/

Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and leave a 5-star review and comment if you liked this episode! Find all courses at https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com ,free music lessons here: https://MusicinOurHomeschool.com/FreeMusicLessons , and lots more links here: https://linktr.ee/genamayo !

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Are you a homeschooling parent eager to incorporate quality music education into your curriculum but unsure where to start? In this episode of the Music in Our Homeschool podcast, veteran music educator and homeschooling mom of eight, Gena Mayo, answers the top frequently asked questions she receives about bringing music into your homeschool. Drawing from her decades of teaching experience and insights gathered from homeschool conferences, Gena unpacks everything you need to know to get started with music in your homeschool—no matter your musical background.

Discover how easy and affordable it can be to add music theory, music appreciation, and even instrumental or singing lessons to your home education. Learn about the best online music courses for kids of all ages, from preschoolers to high schoolers, including options for group lessons or independent study. Gena explains the difference between music appreciation and music theory, highlights how her courses accommodate families with multiple children, and discusses how to fulfill fine arts requirements for various state homeschool standards.

Curious about the flexibility of online music classes? Find out how Gena's curriculum allows your family to go at your own pace, with lessons as short as 15 minutes, and lifetime access included. You'll also hear about faith-based and secular options, free sample lessons, seasonal and holiday music units, tech-friendly access including mobile and tablet, as well as Gena’s money-back guarantee.

Whether you’re looking for a full music curriculum, fun supplemental music activities, or resources to help your children meet homeschool music requirements, this episode has you covered. Tune in and let Gena guide you through bringing the joy of music into your homeschool—no musical expertise required!

Find links to all resources mentioned in this episode here: https://musicinourhomeschool.com/questions-about-music-in-our-homeschool/

Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and leave a 5-star review and comment if you liked this episode! Find all courses at https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com ,free music lessons here: https://MusicinOurHomeschool.com/FreeMusicLessons , and lots more links here: https://linktr.ee/genamayo !

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In episode 69 of the Music in Our Homeschool podcast, host Gena Mayo, veteran music teacher and homeschooling mom, reveals why the piano keyboard is one of the most effective tools for teaching and understanding music theory at any age. Whether you're a seasoned homeschooler or just beginning your music education journey, this episode brings valuable insight on how a simple keyboard can transform your approach to teaching music.

Gena explains how the visual and tactile layout of the piano keyboard makes music theory concepts—like notes, scales, chords, intervals, sharps, and flats—much more accessible and engaging. Unlike other instruments, the piano shows music structure in a way that's easy for beginners and advanced students alike to understand. Discover how keyboard-based instruction bridges the gap between sheet music and hands-on practice, supporting note recognition, pitch relationships, harmony, and chord progressions.

Learn practical tips for incorporating even a small keyboard into your homeschool routine to boost your child’s confidence and comprehension of core music theory. Gena also shares personal stories and highlights helpful resources, including her own Beginning Music Theory courses and the KinderBach program for young children.

If you’re seeking affordable and effective ways to teach music at home, don’t miss this episode! Perfect for parents, homeschoolers, and anyone interested in music education, this episode will inspire you to make music theory fun, simple, and meaningful.

Listen now and start using the piano keyboard to unlock your child’s musical potential!

Find links to all resources mentioned in this episode here: https://musicinourhomeschool.com/piano-keyboard-music-theory/

Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and leave a 5-star review and comment if you liked this episode! Find all courses at https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com ,free music lessons here: https://MusicinOurHomeschool.com/FreeMusicLessons , and lots more links here: https://linktr.ee/genamayo !

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Unlock the power of music education at home with Episode 68 of the Music in Our Homeschool Podcast: “How to Easily Include Beginning and Advanced Music Theory in Your Homeschool,” hosted by experienced music educator and homeschooling mom, Gena Mayo. Whether you’re a homeschooling parent feeling intimidated by music theory, or you have a budding musician at home, this episode is packed with actionable tips and encouragement to make both beginning and advanced music theory accessible, engaging, and fun for every family.

Discover why learning music theory is crucial for your child’s education—from enhancing sight reading skills and improving mathematical reasoning to strengthening cognitive flexibility and overall music literacy. Gena Mayo breaks down the benefits of music theory in the homeschool environment and shares how it can be seamlessly integrated into your daily routine, regardless of your own musical background.

Explore Gena’s three comprehensive, self-paced online music theory courses designed specifically for homeschoolers: Beginning Music Theory for Elementary, Beginning Music Theory for Teens, and Advanced Music Theory for Teens. Each course features engaging video lessons, printable worksheets, interactive ear training, and self-grading quizzes to ensure mastery at every level—without requiring parents to know music theory themselves!

This episode covers practical strategies for teaching music theory at home, ideas for incorporating games and manipulatives, and how to help your child progress from foundational concepts to college-prep skills. Plus, learn about exclusive homeschool resources and special membership options that make a quality music education affordable and stress-free.

If you’re looking for step-by-step guidance on how to add quality music theory instruction to your homeschool curriculum, this episode is your go-to resource. Tune in and empower your homeschoolers with the skills they need to thrive musically!

Find links to all resources mentioned in this episode here: https://musicinourhomeschool.com/music-theory-in-your-homeschool/

Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and leave a 5-star review and comment if you liked this episode! Find all courses at https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com ,free music lessons here: https://MusicinOurHomeschool.com/FreeMusicLessons , and lots more links here: https://linktr.ee/genamayo !

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Are you searching for the best way to incorporate quality music and fine arts education into your homeschool? In this episode of the Music in Our Homeschool podcast, experienced homeschool mom and music teacher Gena Mayo walks you through the newly updated Music in Our Homeschool Plus membership to help you confidently choose the right tier for your family’s needs.

Whether you’re a homeschooling beginner or a seasoned educator, Gena explains how the Music in Our Homeschool Plus membership makes it easy and affordable to access high-quality, zero-prep music and fine arts lessons for preschool through high school students. Discover the unique benefits of each membership tier—Basic, Core, Premium, and School Co-op—and find out which one fits your homeschooling style, budget, and educational goals.

Learn about the comprehensive online resources, including music appreciation, music theory, composer studies, fine art pages, instrument instruction, and exclusive live lessons for kids and families. Hear real member testimonials about the program’s ease of use, flexible structure, and enriching content designed for every homeschool setting, from large co-ops to single-family homeschools.

If you want a simple, step-by-step solution for music education—without hefty planning or prep—this episode is the perfect guide. Plus, Gena shares how music and fine arts with Music in Our Homeschool Plus can bring joy to your summer learning or provide valuable high school transcript credits.

Ready to make music and fine arts an enjoyable part of your homeschool routine? Listen in to discover all the features and perks of Music in Our Homeschool Plus, and get expert advice on selecting the tier that’s best for your family.

Find links to all resources mentioned in this episode here: https://musicinourhomeschool.com/music-in-our-homeschool-membership-tier/

Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and leave a 5-star review and comment if you liked this episode! Find all courses at https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com ,free music lessons here: https://MusicinOurHomeschool.com/FreeMusicLessons , and lots more links here: https://linktr.ee/genamayo !

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Are you looking for creative ways to enrich your homeschool this summer? Tune into Episode 66 of the Music in Our Homeschool Podcast with Gena Mayo, where we dive into the benefits of including a music course in your homeschool summer routine! Discover why summer is the perfect time for homeschool families to add music and art without the pressure of a busy school year.

In this inspiring episode, Gena Mayo, an experienced homeschooling mom and music teacher, shares practical tips for making music education easy, fun, and stress-free during the summer months. Learn how scheduling a music course in the off-season can free up precious time during your academic year and help your children stay engaged and creative all year long.

Gena highlights some of the best online music courses for homeschoolers, such as Sound Bites: Classical Meets Cartoons, Summer Music Lessons for Holidays and Special Days, Intro to Musicals for Elementary Students, and beginner instrument lessons like Recorder Time, Guitar Time, and Bass Guitar Time. She explains how these zero-prep, self-paced online courses are designed to fit seamlessly into your summer plans – whether at home or on the go.

Explore ways to nurture your child’s love for music and art, find out how learning an instrument over the summer boosts confidence, and discover resources that support a joyful, well-rounded homeschool education.

Don’t miss the exclusive discount code SUMMER25, available for all Music in Our Homeschool courses at https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com to help you save!

Subscribe to the Music in Our Homeschool Podcast for more homeschooling tips, curriculum reviews, and creative inspiration to make learning music fun and accessible all year round.

Find links to all resources mentioned in this episode here: https://musicinourhomeschool.com/music-course-in-the-summer/

Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and leave a 5-star review and comment if you liked this episode! Find all courses at https://Learn.MusicinOurHomeschool.com ,free music lessons here: https://MusicinOurHomeschool.com/FreeMusicLessons , and lots more links here: https://linktr.ee/genamayo !