The Musical Child: Using the Power of Music to Raise Children Who Are Happy, Healthy, and Whole

“Wonderful.”—Herbie Hancock

A pioneering music educator reveals how music can supercharge early childhood development—and how parents and educators can harness its power.

Since opening her famed Parisian conservatory over three decades ago, Joan Koenig has led a global movement to improve children’s lives and minds with the transformative power of music. With a curriculum and philosophy drawn from cutting-edge science, L’Ecole Koenig has educated and empowered even its youngest students, from baby Max, whose coordination and communication grow as he wiggles and coos along to targeted songs and dance, to five-year-old Constance, who nourishes her empathy, creativity, and memory while practicing music from other cultures. In The Musical Child, Koenig shares stories from her classrooms, along with tips about how to use the latest research during the critical years when children are most sensitive to musical exposure—and most receptive to its benefits.

A gift for parents, caregivers, musicians, and educators, The Musical Child reveals the multiple ways music can help children thrive—and how, in the twenty-first century, its practice is more vital than ever.

JOAN KOENIG is the American-born founder of L’École Koenig Music School, Pre­school & Kindergarten in Paris. A graduate of the Juilliard School, she has performed as a soloist and chamber musician and has taught in French national conservatories. She lives in Paris.