Practice only on the days you eat!
The Suzuki Method
Suzuki teaching is based on a philosophy of respect for the child. All children are respected as unique human beings.They are capable of developing their musical abilities just as well as they develop their linguistic abilities.
Essential principles of the Suzuki teaching method are: listening, learning by ear, tonalization, parent involvement and attendance at lessons, encouragement, step-by-step mastery, and reading after physical control of playing is achieved.
The main goals of the “Suzuki method” are for the child to build a noble soul, to develop an appreciation of beauty, to learn the discipline of acquiring a skill and to become a fine human being. With the proper education and environment, every child can learn to play a musical instrument. Talent can be learned, ability can be developed, and, just as each child learns to speak his native language, he can learn a musical skill through the “mother tongue” approach.
The fate of a child is in the hands of the parents.
— Dr. Shinichi Suzuki
Parental Involvement
The Suzuki approach relies strongly on the cooperative relationship of teacher, parent, and student. The parents' role involves the following:
The parent need not be an accomplished musician to be a good “home teacher.” With the teacher’s guidance, the parent can help with learning notes, fingerings, posture, and later on with note reading and theory. The most important single ingredient for success is the parent’s willingness to devote regular time to work closely with the child and the teacher.
Parent Education Course
The parent education course prepares you to have a pleasant and productive musical experience with your child. The parent attends weekly classes (without child) for 10 or 20 weeks.
Parents learn about Dr. Suzuki’s teaching philosophy and how to apply it, how to play rhythmic variations of “Twinkle, twinkle, little star” on the chosen instrument, and how to read music at an elementary level. Children begin instrumental lessons after parents complete the course.
Private Class
Parent participation is an integral part of the Suzuki method. At the weekly session, parents learn how to supervise the home practice. The parents and children learn together.
When students are older, usually around age 13, the parent is weaned from attending lessons. Sometimes older students request that their parents still attend so they can take notes and help organize their practice.
Group Class
Students also meet with their peers in group classes, where they develop their performance, improvisation, music reading and theory skills. Group classes provide motivation as students learn together in a cooperative atmosphere. By playing together and hearing each other play, they are inspired.
Performances
At least three times during the year students (and sometimes parents) perform in a public setting. One recital is all group performances; one recital features students playing solo pieces plus some chamber ensemble music; one recital is a mix of both large group pieces and solo repertoire. Playing in public helps the young musicians gain poise and confidence.