Suzuki Method

Suzuki based his approach on the belief that “Musical ability is not an inborn talent but an ability which can be developed. Any child who is properly trained can develop musical ability, just as all children develop the ability to speak their mother tongue. The potential of every child is unlimited.”

Dr. Suzuki’s goal was not simply to develop professional musicians, but to nurture loving human beings and help develop each child’s character through the study of music.

Read below to learn the key elements of the Suzuki Philosophy.

Early Beginning: The early years are crucial for learning muscle coordination and developing mental processes. You can start listening at birth and instrumental lessons can begin at age 3. It's never too late to begin!

Listening: Children learn to speak words after hearing them spoken hundreds of times by others. Listening to music daily is essential, especially the Suzuki repertoire so that the child knows them immediately.

Repetition: Constant repetition is essential to learn an instrument. Children do not learn words or music and then immediately discard it. They add it to their vocabulary and repertoire.

Parent Involvement: The parent's involvement through attending the lessons, being a home practice coach, and creating an enjoyable learning environment for the child are an essential part of the Suzuki Method. Don't worry if you don't have musical experience, we'll work together so that you are able to help your child practice.

Learning with Other Children: In addition to private lessons, children participate in regular group lessons and performances, where they learn from and are motivated by each other.

Graded Repertoire: Like learning a language through speaking, children will learn techniques through the pieces in the Suzuki Method, rather than through dry, technical exercises.

Encouragement: As with language, the child’s effort to learn an instrument should be met with sincere praise and encouragement. Each child learns at his/her own rate, building on small steps so that each one can be mastered. Children are also encouraged to support each other’s efforts, fostering an attitude of generosity and cooperation.

Delayed Reading: This is an often misunderstood element of the Suzuki Method. Children will learn to read music notation; it is just delayed until they have achieved technical competence on their instrument. This is similar to learning to read words well after their ability to speak has been well established. Through Music Mind Games, children will learn to read notation very early, but we will delay combining it with their instrument until they are ready to do so.