Impressive Musical Beginnings
Kat Skemp, with degrees in vocal performance and musical theater from Northwestern and Boston University, has a singing career that took her across the U.S. She understands the profound impact music can have on a child's early development. Remembering singing along to Barbra Streisand with her mom and joining a local girl's chorus at seven, she believes building a musical foundation early is key.At Bebop and Bundles, the ten-week "Music Together" program is offered to children as young as four months. Skemp leads each session with a variety of activities like songs, instruments, toys, and dancing. They do a lot of resting tone play, tonal play, rhythm patterns, and tonal patterns to help children develop rhythmic and tonal skills.
Although the songs and dances seem simple at first, there is a lot of complexity behind them. It's not typical children's music in major tonality and four-four. It's challenging music that introduces children to major tonalities and rhythms early on.
The Success Stories
Several of Skemp's first Bebop and Bundles students have grown into successful musical talents. Andre Previn Peck, a 15-year-old multi-award-winning pianist from Central High School, started "Music Together" at six months and was alongside fellow playmate Elizabeth Matz.Matz, a junior at Onalaska High School, is proficient in piano, flute, cello, and vocal performance. She recalls her earliest memories in class with Miss Kat, never wanting to go home and even crying after the goodbye song a few times. Now, she plays in her high school band, sings in the choir, and performs with the La Crosse Youth Symphony Orchestra. She realizes that her love for music started from playing with music as a child.
Skemp is amazed to watch these children have joy in what they do and have an outlet for their creativity and expression. It's a gift to see them perform and know that "Music Together" has made a difference.
The Special Time
Even for the babies, "Music Together" at Bebop and Bundles is a special time. The sound of their voices and the looks on their faces show the joy it brings. Class is like an endorphin rush, and leaving class makes everyone happier.Currently, Music Together classes at Bebop and Bundles are enrolling for their 3-week Jingle Jam Session and 10-week Winter 2026 session. It's a time to create very special memories for everyone.