How does the Suzuki Method differ from other methods of teaching children?

• Suzuki teachers believe that musical ability can be developed in all children

• Students begin at young ages (as young as 2-6)

• Parents are involved in their children's' lessons and daily practice

• Children become comfortable playing their instrument before learning to read music

• Technique is taught in the context of pieces, rather than through technical exercises

• Pieces are refined through constant review and are never dropped

• Students perform in both group and solo contexts frequently

 

As a parent, how am I involved?

The parent's role starts with creating a musical environment for the child at home by listening daily to their Suzuki CD. Parents come to every lesson and take careful notes to make sure that the exact assignment is practiced at home. The parent is the child’s ‘’practice partner,’’ and does not need to be a musician to serve this role. The Suzuki teacher guides each parent to learn the basics required to be part of the teacher-student-parent Suzuki triangle.

 

How do I schedule lessons?

Contact us and the director will help to schedule with the Suzuki teachers your lesson as available. Towards the end of the school year, the teachers work with the parents and director to arrange lesson times for the following Fall. New students are required to observe lessons before beginning.

 

Does my child need to take group lessons?

Yes. Group classes are the foundation of the program at our school. If a student misses some group lessons, the fees are still applicable and they are expected to keep attending.

 

How do I buy/rent an instrument?

We recommend renting your instruments first. We have a partnership with Long & McQuade on Cunard Street, and request that young players use a Yamaha violin. We have special orders on guitars, flutes, cellos and violas in smaller sizes. Parents are required to rent a full-size instrument for a few months to learn the basic setup.