What is the Suzuki Method?

The development of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki’s philosophy began with his realization that, just as all children learn to speak their native tongue at a very young age, so can all children learn and benefit from music. Dr. Suzuki developed his method based on recreating, as much as possible, the conditions involved in learning to speak.

The primary aim of the Suzuki philosophy is to enrich children’s lives through the joy of music. Students build self-esteem, confidence in meeting new challenges, self-discipline, and concentration. Success in playing is a natural outcome of these aims, as each student unfolds and develops her/his ability at whatever rate is comfortable.

Children can begin formal instrumental training as early as age three. Generally, one parent attends lessons and assists the child with home practice. Students listen daily to recordings of the repertoire, and initially begin to play by ear, with reading postponed until aural and instrumental skills are well established. Once pieces are learned, they are frequently reviewed, serving as carefully selected building blocks which lead to successful completion of future pieces. Group lessons, in addition to the private lessons, provide powerful motivation and cooperative, fun learning experiences.

While an early beginning is strongly encouraged when possible, many older students find that the methodology is well suited to students of all ages and levels. It is often the fastest way to build skills to a high level while refining a student’s aural capability in numerous ways. For more advanced students, it can be a relatively easy and fun way to systematically build fundamental skills in flute playing while eradicating habits that are less constructive.

Please see recommended Reading Materials below

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Recommended Reading Materials Nurtured by Love OR Ability Development From Age Zero                   Both by Shinichi Suzuki American Suzuki Association Journal                   published by the Suzuki  Association of the Americas (SAA) at:    SAA    P.O. Box 17310    Boulder, CO  80308    Phone: 303-444-0948 OR 1-888-378-9854       Email: info@suzukiassociation.org

Web:

www.suzukiassociation.org