Session: Sept 14th – Oct 26th (7wks)
Session: Stay Tuned for future Dates
Day: Thursday’s
Age/Time: 0-1yrs (9-945am)
Age/Time: 2-3yrs (10-1045am)
Instructor: Gabrielle Unser
Certified Music Therapist, MTA, BMT, MT-BC
Cost: $105/series of 7 weeks
Join us for family-child bonding through music! Facilitated by a music therapist, families will engage in musical interventions that encourage connection and growth. Songs used during sessions can be applied at home to help develop continued independence and bonding! Resources will be handed out to each family at the end of each session.
Learning Objectives:
● To develop connection between a child and their big adult
● To learn songs that can be implemented in their own home for continued connection
● To have fun together!
● To increase social connection with other families
Course Outline: Each group varies significantly based on its age range! An outline will be finalized after the confirmation of class age ranges and number of sessions.
In sessions with aged 0-1 year olds, parents/guardians will learn and implement the benefits of singing to their child and using sensory musical play to promote connection. Older aged groups will engage in movement and developmental songs, such as tunes to encourage cleaning up, brushing teeth, and being silly together to be also implemented in their own homes after sessions are completed if they so choose!
About your instructor: Gabrielle was raised within the unceded territories of kʷikʷəƛ̓əm (Kwikwetlem First Nation). She thanks the kʷikʷəƛ̓əm who continue to live on these lands and care for them, along with the waters and all that is above and below. She, her husband and their daughter, Ellie have officially moved to Brentwood Bay in search of that island lifestyle.
Having obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Music Therapy from Capilano University in September 2021, Gabrielle possesses a strong educational foundation in her field. Prior to her graduation, she completed a 1000 hour pre-professional practicum within the Delta School District, where she discovered a profound passion for working with children and youth, both neurodiverse and neurotypical alike. Throughout the ongoing pandemic, Gabrielle has acquired valuable experience in delivering music therapy through online Telehealth sessions, as well as in-person sessions.
Gabrielle’s primary instrument of expertise is the baritone ukulele, although her affinity for music has been evident since her early years. She embarked on her musical journey at the age of six, beginning her piano lessons. She has experience in guitar, drums, xylophones and a variety of other instruments.
Guided by a humanistic, play based, non-directive, and client-led approach, Gabrielle’s music therapy practice revolves around tailoring each session to suit the specific needs and desires of her clients. Emphasizing individuality and personal expression, her sessions encompass an array of instrument explorations, such as percussive instruments, xylophones, and various others and sensory play. Within Gabrielle’s music therapy sessions, there exists no concept of right or wrong—rather, a supportive environment that encourages creative freedom.
When the pandemic hit, Gabrielle noted a huge loss of community. She created the Music and Movement program to bring families and children together — to build community as well as address social-emotional goals. Since her move from the mainland, she decided to bring her programs with her in the hopes to foster them within her new community.
During her leisure time, Gabrielle enjoys the company of her daughter and husband, engaging in activities such as board games and pickleball and nurturing her passion for songwriting.
