Established in 1978 and directed for over 30 years by the late Suzuki Violin Teacher Kathleen Tyree, the NOSF follows the Suzuki Method of Talent Education developed by Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki. His philosophy is that since every child can learn to speak his native language by listening, imitation, repetition, and encouragement, they can also learn to play instrumental music in the same way. 

When children participate in regular group lessons and performances they learn from and are motivated by each other. Constant repetition is essential in learning to play an instrument. Children do not learn a word or piece of music and then discard it. They add it to their vocabulary or repertoire, gradually using it in new and more sophisticated ways. The early years are crucial for developing mental processes and muscle coordination. Listening to music should begin at birth; formal training may begin at age three or four, but it is never too late to begin. Children learn words after hearing them spoken hundreds of times by others. Listening to music every day is important, especially listening to pieces in the Suzuki repertoire so the child knows them immediately.