The Suzuki method, founded by Japanese violinist Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, stands on the belief that every child is born with musical ability that can be nurtured and developed to a high level. This learning approach, often called the “mother tongue” method, emulates how every child learns their native language by listening and imitating their parent’s voice.
Suzuki instruction provides a strong technical foundation with musical skills taught in a progressive format by well-trained faculty. Weekly private lessons allow students to progress at their own pace while weekly group classes develop ensemble skills, camaraderie and reinforces proper technique.
Students are presented twice yearly in group performances and solo recitals in addition to being evaluated in juried performances at the end of the school year.
The Suzuki method requires parent participation in weekly private lessons, daily listening and practicing at home.
Structuring it so that the parents work closely with the kids, it's like a shared experience ... Isaac's success is my success too! Jack Zerrudo, Parent of Isaac Zerrudo
Structuring it so that the parents work closely with the kids, it's like a shared experience ... Isaac's success is my success too!
The Suzuki Strings Program is directed by Program & Violin Coordinator, Rumi Shimasaki, and Cello Coordinator, Nancy Yamagata, who represent a highly trained faculty with many years of teaching experience. Suzuki study focuses on developing the ear alongside the technical aspects of string playing and note reading is taught once posture and position are well established. Weekly group classes supplement the private lesson by providing community and the reinforcement of musical skills. In addition to solo recitals, Suzuki string students present group concerts twice yearly in Colburn’s Zipper Hall.
My favorite part of the Suzuki Violin program was learning from different instructors as I moved up in different groups and meeting new people. Learning from many teachers really helped me see things in a new way every time. Violinist Victoria Chun
My favorite part of the Suzuki Violin program was learning from different instructors as I moved up in different groups and meeting new people. Learning from many teachers really helped me see things in a new way every time.
Children ages four through seven may begin study when they display a readiness to accept instruction. Please visit Frequently Asked Questions below to learn more about the Suzuki Strings Program for violin and cello.
Frequently Asked Questions
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I like playing Suzuki guitar because I get to play songs with other people. It’s also great to learn new things, like how music works. London Knight
I like playing Suzuki guitar because I get to play songs with other people. It’s also great to learn new things, like how music works.
The Suzuki Guitar Program is directed by Dr. Connie Sheu, a classical guitarist with 20 years of experience teaching Suzuki guitar. Studying classical guitar through the Suzuki method provides students with a strong technical foundation on the guitar, along with the development of musicianship and artistry. Guitar is a portable, accessible, and comforting instrument for children to begin their musical journey on. Students in the Suzuki Guitar program learn to play in unison in a group setting, develop ear training skills, and gradually learn to read standard musical notation. A weekly group class with students of similar age and level complements each student’s weekly private lesson.
Suzuki Guitar is open to students ages five and older. Interested students should submit an inquiry below.
Inquiry Form