top of page
stefandsuzuki.jpg

THE SUZUKI PHILOSOPHY

Every Child Can

More than fifty years ago, Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki realized the implications of the fact that children all over the world learn to speak their native language with ease. He began to apply the basic principles of language acquisition to the learning of music, and called his method the mother-tongue approach. The ideas of parent responsibility, loving encouragement, constant repetition and regular group classes are some of the cornerstones of the Suzuki approach.

Parent Involvment 

As when a child learns to talk, parents are involved in the musical learning of their child. They attend lessons with the child and serve as “home teachers” during the week. One parent often learns to play before the child, so that s/he understands what the child is expected to do. Parents work with the teacher to create an enjoyable learning environment.

Early Beginning

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.

Listening

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.

Repetition

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.

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.

Learning with Other Children

In addition to private lessons, children participate in regular group lessons and performance at which they learn from and are motivated by each other.

Graded Repertoire

Children do not practice exercises to learn to talk, but use language for its natural purpose of communication and self-expression. Pieces in the Suzuki repertoire are designed to present technical problems to be learned in the context of the music rather than through dry technical exercises.

Delayed Reading

Children learn to read after their ability to talk has been well established. in the same way, children should develop basic technical competence on their instruments before being taught to read music.

Suzuki Philosophy: About

A PRODUCT OF THE SUZUKI PHILOSOPHY

Growing up as a Suzuki kid, Ms. Aria is a firm believer that every cornerstone of the Mother Tongue Approach is essential to the success of each young musician. Many parents are concerned that the Suzuki method is too large a commitment for their family. It is true, starting a young child on a musical instrument requires patience, perserverance and love. The importance of daily practice and listening, weekly lessons and frequent group classes are vital to the success of both student and parent.

While the time commitment is great, teaching a child how to express themselves with music is a wonderful gift. When your child chooses music, they learn endurance, sensitivity and respect. Children are truly remarkable. They're capable of anything as long as they have an encouraging and supportive environment!

3yrsViolinPic.jpg
Suzuki Philosophy: Student Life
bottom of page