Teaching Philosophy

Basic Philosophy of the Suzuki Approach

More than fifty years ago, Japanese violinist Shinichi Suzuki realized the implications of the fact that children the world over learn to speak their native language with ease. He began to apply the basic principles of language acquisition to the learning of music, and called his method the mother-tongue approach. The ideas of parent responsibility, loving encouragement, constant repetition, etc., are some of the special features of the Suzuki approach. Through my Suzuki Association of the Americas approved training and hands-on teaching experience, I have adopted the Suzuki philosophy that Every Child Can learn to play a musical instrument. Some key components to the success of this approach include:

• Parent Involvement
  As when a child learns to talk, parents are involved in their child’s musical learning. The Suzuki Triangle is the symbol used to show that the teacher, the parent, and the child are all necessary to the learning process. Each is equally important and each needs to be able to work together and support one another. Therefore, parents should attend lessons, take notes on what to practice, and serve as their child’s at-home teacher. The parent should understand the basics of the instrument in order to do so with confidence. The term ‘parent’ can include any caregiver, guardian, grandparent, etc who is supporting the child in the learning process.

• Early Beginning
  The early years of development are most crucial for both muscle coordination and ear training. The traditional Suzuki approach starts children with formal lessons and music appreciation as early as possible. Although starting musical training at an early age is most beneficial, we believe that one is never too old to begin.

• Listening and Repetition
  Just as your child learned to speak by hearing thousands of words daily, your child can learn music by listening every day. Emphasis on listening is placed above the ability to read notes and rhythms, and repetition is essential when learning how to play an instrument. The online recordings that accompany the Suzuki Books, when listened to daily, makes practicing and attending lessons more successful and enjoyable! For slower recordings, I recommend the Cadenza Strings YouTube account.

• Positive Environment
  As with language, the child’s effort to learn an instrument should be met with sincere praise and encouragement. Each child learns at their own rate, building on small steps so that each one can be mastered. As the parent or guardian, you are always encouraged to praise your child, but please allow only the teacher to offer corrections and instruction during lessons, as this will prevent confusion.

• Learning with other Children
  Dr. Suzuki believed the joy of learning music should be shared throughout the community. In addition to private lessons, children participate in regular group lessons and performances at which they learn from and are motivated by each other. In group classes, children are encouraged to support each other’s efforts, fostering an attitude of generosity and cooperation.

• Practice
  Students are expected to maintain a regular practice schedule at home. Dr. Suzuki said, “Practice only on the days they eat”! The study of music is very rewarding, but requires daily effort and discipline. I will assign specific weekly practice goals, and you are encouraged to email me throughout the week if you have questions about any of these assignments. Parents are expected to oversee practice sessions of their young children, so ask about games and activities that can make musical challenges more successful and rewarding.