What is the Suzuki Method?
Also called The Talent Method, the Suzuki Method was developed by Sinichi Suzuki, a violinst and teacher. Suzuki modeled his method after theories of natural language acquisition. He noticed that children pick up their native language quickly- even the most difficult and complex of languages. Suzuki believed that every child, if taught properly, is capable of a high level of musical achievement. His goal of music education includes raising children who were not only proficient in their musical abilities, but also children with "noble hearts". He taught the concept "character first, ability second". The goal is to embrace the whole child while developing a knowledge of and a love for music.
There are several different components to the Suzuki method which all come together to accomplish this goal.
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Listening |
Suzuki believed in the importance of listening to music daily. This includes music from the Suzuki collection as well as music in general. Just as children learn to speak by hearing language, hearing music is an important part of learning to play it. The Suzuki songs provide children with a model for their own playing. Learning to play the proper tone and feel of the songs is stressed in lessons. |
| Repetition |
When learning any musical instrument, repetition is essential. Just as when children learn to speak, they do not discard previously learned words, previously learned musical pieces will not be discarded. They will continue to be practiced as new and more sophisticated pieces are added. |
| Early Beginning |
Just as children are spoken to at birth, music should be heard from birth. Suzuki piano lessons may begin at ages 3 or 4 or at any time. It is never to late to learn. I have had children of all ages begin their training with me as well as adults of all ages. |
| Parent Involvement |
For the chidren in my program, parent involvement is very important. Parents are invited to attend lessons with their child so they can act as teachers to reinforce what is leaned at home. Parents are encouraged to learn to play also. |
| Reading Music |
Suzuki's method, also called the "Mother Tongue" method emphasizes that children learn to read well after they have a mastery of their language. In the same way, children learn a technical mastery of their instrument, gaining a comfort level and a feel for the instrument before going on to read music. |
Learn more about the Suzuki method on Wikipedia. |