- Repertoire
- Groups
- Repetition
- Listening
- Games
- Tone
- Intuition
- Graduation
Suzuki students learn to play an instrument the same way they learn to speak, by hearing a sound and then reproducing it. This is what Suzuki calls the “mother-tongue method”.
The Suzuki program requires the active participation of a parent, including mandatory attendance at all lessons and group classes and a willingness to serve as the child’s at-home teacher.
Throughout the Suzuki growing process, the student thrives in an atmosphere of continual support and understanding. Every aspect of the Suzuki program is dedicated to the child: from repertoire, lesson length and seating at the instrument to the positive pedagogic approach.
Developed in the 1940s in Japan, the Suzuki Method is based on the premise that children are born with remarkable ability which can be developed in a nurturing environment. Dr. Shinichi Suzuki noted that children learn to speak their native language at home, in family-centered environment of positive reinforcement, and by applying the same natural learning environment to other areas of child development, music skills can be developed just as successfully. Suzuki students learn to make music using the “mother tongue” approach – just as they learn to speak – by listening and imitating.
Parent Involvement
Parents attend lessons with the child and serve as “home teachers” during the week. They also work with the teacher to create an enjoyable learning environment.
Early Beginning
Ideally, training begins in the pre-school years, but it is never too late to begin.
Listening
Daily playing of a reference recording of the Suzuki repertoire provides the environment for learning by ear.
Repetition
Repetition is essential in learning to play an instrument, to train muscles and memory. In the Suzuki approach, it is also used to maintain a performance repertoire.
Refinement
New skills are added to previously learned pieces to refine tone development and musicianship.
Positive environment
Specific praise for effort and accomplishment create a nurturing learning environment.
Graded Repertoire
Technical and music skills are developed in the context of the music.
Group experiences
In addition to private lessons, students participate in regular group lessons and performances.
At First by Ear
Children learn to speak and later learn to read. Following this example, children develop basic technical competence on their instruments before being taught to read music.
- Read about the Suzuki method on our website - minimum research prior to proceeding
- Book a Suzuki Workshop
- Make an appointment for observation; individual and group lessons (3 or 4 times recommended)
- Ask more questions
- Appointment with Director
*Priority will be given to parents who are seriously committed and whose children are ready (based on observation), are highly motivated and possess a strong interest in Suzuki method philosophy and pedagogy.
