Suzuki School

The Suzuki School philosophy is based on two basic elements: the Mother Tongue Language and the Triangle Method. It has been highly successful as a tool in teaching not only how to play an instrument beautifully, but in creating wonderful life lessons for children.  The ultimate goal is not to produce professional musicians, but rather to enrich and strengthen students' character and souls.

The most basic principle is that of Mother Tongue Language and applying it to the study of a musical instrument.  When Shinichi Suzuki traveled the world, he would make note of the language skills of the children in their home countries.  Although he could not speak their language, these small children were proficient - all due to the simple fact that this was the language they heard their parents, family and friends speak on a daily basis.  By applying this same idea to learning music, Dr. Suzuki created recordings by professional artists that the children could listen to, even while in the womb. By being surrounded by the beautiful tone, exact rhythm and musical phrases, these children were able to internalize the depth and skills needed to perform beginning as well as advanced repertoire.

By involving the parent in the lessons, they become the third side of a triangle: Student - Teacher - Parent.  The parents' role is that of home teacher, to direct the practicing and listening of the student.  It is very similar to the importance of a parent assisting with school homework assignments.  If a child has a question regarding a math problem, the parent sits down and guides them through the assignment so that their homework is completed in time for the next school day.  The same must take place in musical study.  If a child struggles with a fingering, rhythm, technique or phrasing, the parent is by their side to help and encourage them.  This insures an assignment that is well-prepared and a child who feels confident for their next lesson.

In studying the Suzuki repertoire, students and parents find great success in small steps.  Memorization and repetition are key elements that enable the student to focus on body position, fingering and musical phrase.  As the student progresses and begins to master more difficult works, note reading is introduced.  Technical skills, duet playing and supplemental solo repertoire are included to give the student a well-rounded musical experience.

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