Curriculum
My goal is for students to develop their musicianship skills in a way that will allow them to continue making music throughout their lives. We offer Suzuki violin and viola lessons for children ages three and up. Students attend private and group lessons and perform in solo and group recitals. Parents are required to attend all private and group lessons.
If the student is seven years or younger, the first four lessons are reserved for the parent ONLY in order to discuss the philosophy (please read Nurtured by Love) and practice strategies and assignments. During these first four lessons, the parent will learn the basics of the instrument in order to become an effective home teacher. After graduating from this mini-parent education program, the parent may choose to continue his or her own lesson, but this is not a studio requirement.
Individual Lessons: Nearly all new information is presented during private lessons. Parents should take careful notes so that the home practice sessions follow the concepts as closely as possible.
The effectiveness of the individual lessons is directly dependant on practice at home throughout the week. Habits are formed by repetition, and practice sessions are all about building the right habits. What happens a few times during the individual lesson can be repeated many times at home. The more careful and consistent practice sessions at home lessons are, the more quickly students will master the new concepts.
Group Lessons: Group lessons are an essential part of the Suzuki Method. The violin is a "social instrument." Violinists and violists almost always perform with other string players (in orchestras or chamber groups) or with pianists (in solo recitals). Group lessons teach students to clearly communicate musical ideas and to perform as an ensemble.
Just as importantly, group lessons are fun! Students enjoy making music together, and will come to rely on their peer group of musicians for support and encouragement. Younger or less experienced players look up to and learn from the slightly older and more advanced players. As students grow and mature, they experience the thrill of being a role model and a source of motivation for others.
Finally, Suzuki group lessons provide a great chance to learn how to respect and appreciate the efforts of others. We emphasize that as musicians, we are not competing against each other, but working together to create beautiful music that can only come from a team of dedicated, sensitive musicians.
Recitals: I am passionate about student performances at recitals. They provide a wonderful opportunity for students to gain confidence, set and achieve goals, and have fun. Students learn to take pride in their performances, and they again have an opportunity to watch and learn from their peers. Younger students are inspired by seeing older or more advanced students performing, and older students are reminded of how far they have come and experience the joy of being a role model for others. Recitals are always a positive experience in my studio, and I emphasize to everyone the importance of respecting the efforts of all performers.
To achieve a successful recital performance, preparation is essential. In order to prepare for the recital, the piece must be memorized several weeks ahead of time. Practice performances should be given for friends, family, or teachers. Students should continue to listen to recordings of their pieces in order to understand what the rest of the ensemble or the pianist will be contributing.
I also highly recommend participation in a Suzuki summer institute. I will keep you informed of these opportunities. Recital or festival fees may be applicable.