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What is Suzuki?
The Suzuki Method was created by the Japanese violinist, Dr. Shinichi Suzuki in the mid-20th Century after he observed children learning their native language quickly and effortlessly. He realized that music could be taught the same way. The Suzuki Method, also known as the "Mother Tongue" approach, is focused on teaching with small, acheivable steps, with heavy emphasis on aural learning and a supportive environment.
What makes Suzuki different from other music lessons?
There are a few important differences between Suzuki lessons and traditional music lessons. In traditional lessons, students are expected to learn to play and read sheet music at the same time, which is often overwhelming and prolonges the early-beginner stage of playing. In Suzuki lessons, students learn to play their instrument comfortably and beautifully, and only then is reading introduced.
Another difference is the importance of parental involvement. Every student under the age of 12 should be accompanied by a designated "Practice Parent," who will be taking notes and be supervising practice at home. In addition, for children beginning at 7 or younger, parents will take two free 30 minute "parent education" lessons where they learn the basics of how to play the instrument, so they understand better what the student has to do. In the parent education lessons, I will also be going more in depth into the Suzuki philosophy and my style of teaching.
The last important difference is training. Generally, private lessons are taught by musicians with no explicit training for teaching. In contrast, to consider yourself a Suzuki teacher, you are required to take a course and learn how to teach each individual Suzuki book.
What is a good age to start?
Children can begin Suzuki lessons as early as 4 years old, but it is never too late to start!
Do you offer group classes and recitals?
Yes! Another important part of the Suzuki philosophy is group classes. There will be group classes held once a month. Group classes are important for multiple reasons. Group classes help students get to know one another, develop confidence playing and performing for each other, and give role models for the younger students to look up to.
Recitals will also be held every quarter for students, families, and friends to watch the progress being made. Recitals help build confidence and individuality for students, and also enable students to see where they will be in the future.
Why haven't I heard of Suzuki trumpet?
Suzuki was originally developed for violin and stringed instruments, later being adapted to other instruments. Trumpet and brass have been the latest to be added to the Suzuki method. Another reason is because brass is generally believed to only be learnable at around age 10 and later, which is a belief that the Suzuki Association and I are trying to change.
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