About the Suzuki Method

Mother Tongue approach

Children all over the world have their first musical experience through the Suzuki Method. Developed by the late Japanese teacher Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, the method uses the “mother tongue” approach to learning, based on the ease with which young children learn to speak their language. Dr. Suzuki discovered that these same principles apply when teaching young children to become fine musicians. Suzuki lessons focus on ear-training, developing good instrumental technique and producing a beautiful tone. After these fundamental skills are established, and when the young child is old enough to read words, we introduce step by step music reading. This marvelous early childhood approach also helps parents create positive musical environments in their homes and guides them in their daily schedule as they help their children learn to play an instrument. The Suzuki approach stresses a balanced, triangular relationship with the teacher, the parent and the student.

Suzuki focus

  - Suzuki lessons focus on ear-training, technique and beautiful tone.
  - When the student is old enough to read words, music reading is introduced.
  - The Suzuki approach stresses a balanced, triangular relationship with the teacher, the parent and the
     student.

There are four components of our Suzuki Program:

• Observation – New families are asked to observe both a private lesson and a group class in their
  area, or areas, of interest before entering the program.
• Education – In this course parents will gain a thorough understanding of the Suzuki philosophy
  and method of instrumental music teaching.
• Lessons – Private lessons focus on developing good playing posture, tone, technique and expression.
• Group Classes – develop ensemble playing, a review of repertoire, ear-training, singing and rhythm activities; music reading and music games.

Suzuki Sampler

The Suzuki Sampler is for parents of younger children (ages 4-5) who have little or no knowledge of the Suzuki Method and whose children have not expressed an interest in a particular instrument. Using games, child-friendly activities and limited hands-on demonstration, teachers in our Suzuki Program will introduce young children to a different instrument* each week. These classes may be followed by a Parent Education course that is general in nature, not specific to any instrument, to provide a background in the philosophy of the Suzuki Method.

Teacher Training:

Every Child Can! An Introduction to Suzuki Education©

This course was created by the Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA) to provide a background in the philosophy and method of instrumental music instruction for children pioneered by Japanese violin pedagogue Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998). The course is open to music teachers, college music students and parents whose children study music using the Suzuki Method, and it is presented as a one day, six-hour class. It is not specific to one instrument, but provides a general introduction to the Suzuki Method for all instruments. This course is the required first step for anyone who wishes to become a Suzuki teacher, but it is also valuable to anyone interested in music education for young children.
Location: Carter Center, East Providence
Teacher: Mychal Gendron, SAA Registered Teacher Trainer
Sunday, April 15, 2012
9:00am – 4:00pm
Tuition: (Includes Every Child Can Booklet)
$90 – General; $45 – Students
REGISTRATION DEADLINE:
Friday, March 30, 2012

*We offer Suzuki Lessons & Classes for Violin, Cello, Guitar, Piano and Flute.
The Suzuki Method is ideal for children ages 4-9.