WEST MILFORD Braving the icy elements on a snow-filled morning is not the type of behavior one might expect from mothers of young children; unless, of course, you’re at one of Debbie Disanza’s Music Together classes. Venture in to find moms chatting and smiling, with soothing music playing and an array of percussion instruments on display just waiting to be played. Orchestrating this oasis is the owner/director of Sing With Me, LLC, Debbie DiSanza. Offering 70 classes at eight locations throughout Sussex and Passaic counties including West Milford enrollment begins with newborns through 5 years. Nearly 400 families are enrolled, but with only 12 families per class the environment remains intimate. Parents are the best models, though mixed-age grouping allows younger children to observe/learn from older children while older children model for younger ones. Celebrating its 20th year, Music Together has earned its reputation as a top early childhood program with far reaching appeal. “What really sets Music Together apart” says Disanza “is the relaxed atmosphere. I love watching families break their self conscious feelings around making music.” Disanza attended her first class in 2002 discovering “a completely different and eye-opening experience. Classes are so relaxed and inviting. We are not performance oriented, but instead strive to instill a lifelong love of making and appreciating music.” Taking professional voice lessons and learning to play acoustic guitar, Disanza’s skills are second only to her modesty. “She’s fantastic, my kids really love it.” says Cathleen Lunsford of Jefferson NJ who travels to Sparta with her 3 year old and 2 week old children. “We schlep, but it’s worth it!” adds Kelly Zimmerman, from Stanhope, NJ with her 2 year old son Ryan. “There are other classes closer (to home) but she’s (Disanza) worth it! Ryan used to be very quite and shy but has really come out of his shell since coming to Ms. Debbie’s classes.” As a working mother of two, it takes skill and help to maintain balance in her life. “I don’t think it would be possible if it wasn’t for my family” divulges DiSanza, whose Mother is her office manager. “My husband also works from home which is a huge help.” Disanza’s careful to compartmentalize adding “I have a completely separate part of my basement made specifically for the business.” Taking advantage of the Sussex County College mentoring program, DiSanza received free personalized advice, resulting in securing the SBA loan that financed her business. “I learned the importance of having a strong business plan and being very organized.” Employing 12 registered teachers, DiSanza doesn’t need to teach but explains “I love witnessing and sharing in the musical transformations of my families. But truthfully, it’s the sloppy wet kisses and the big hugs I get after class from the children that keep me coming back for more!” When asked what else she could see herself doing, DiSanza pauses then offers “I really don’t know. I truly love my job. Seriously, I sing and dance and make music. Who wouldn’t want to do this for a living?” For more information about Music Together classes visit www.singwithmenj.com.