Axe ’Em, Jacks!
Developed in Japan by violinist and educator Dr. Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998), the Suzuki Method applies the principles of the ease in which children learn their native language toward how they learn music. Suzuki believed that all children are born with a high talent for learning if they are taught well by loving parents/guardians and teachers.
While the Suzuki Method has expanded over the years toward many instruments, the Music Preparatory Division's Suzuki Institute offers instruction in violin for children aged 3 and older.
Private and group lessons combined
In addition to a weekly private lesson, children participate in a 30-minute weekly group class that reinforces what they're learning in private lessons. The group setting allows children to observe each other, learn to play in an ensemble and make music with peers. View tuition and registration information.
Foundations of the Suzuki approach
Early beginning, listening and repetition
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.
Children learn words after hearing them spoken repeatedly by others, and the same is true for music. Listening to music every day is important, especially from the Suzuki repertoire so that the child recognizes them.
Repetition is essential. Just as children add words to their vocabulary, they also add pieces of music to their repertoire, gradually using it in new and more sophisticated ways.
Parent/Guardian involvement
A minimum of one parent/guardian attends every lesson and class session with the child. They serve as the "home teacher" between lessons by practicing with the child every day, playing recordings and patiently encouraging the child.
Encouragement
As with learning to talk, the child's efforts to learn the violin (or any other instrument) should be met with sincere praise and encouragement. Children learn at different paces from each other, therefore small steps are important so that each one can be mastered.
Learning with other children
Children participate in performances and regular group lessons outside of their private lessons. This allows them to learn from and be motivated by each other.
Graded repertoire
Suzuki repertoire is designed to present technical problems to be learned in the context of music, not dry technical exercises. This concept is based on the understanding that language is best learned in its natural purpose of communication and self-expression.
Delayed reading
Children learn to read after their ability to talk is well established. With music, children should first develop basic technical competence on their violin (or any other instrument) before being taught to read music.
The rewards of consistent daily practice and long-term commitment include: the development of high-level musical ability, enhanced discipline, self-esteem, a lasting appreciation of classical music and a closer parent/child relationship.
Registration information
The Suzuki Institute is a blended program. Two separate tuitions are due:
Private lesson tuition: Varies based on lesson length, instructor level and whether you choose to add weekly lessons. View private lesson tuition information.
Group class tuition: $60 for the semester
Group class sessions:
Jan. 9 to April 30
5 - 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays
Music Prep Building