Approach

The Suzuki Method was created in the mid-20th century by Japanese violin pedagogue Shin'ichi Suzuki, who wished to bring music to the lives of children in his country after World War II. Suzuki was a keen observer, and he realized that all children pick up their native language quickly. He deduced that he could apply a child's ability to acquire their mother tongue to help them become proficient on a musical instrument. He made it clear that the goal of musical education was to help parents raise children with "noble hearts" rather than teaching them violin solely to turn out musical prodigies.With a musically rich and positive learning environment, he believed all things are possible with children. Students attend lessons with a parent, who, along with the teacher, helps and encourages their child during practice at home. These young violinists first learn their music by rote, through demonstration at the lessons, and by listening to their music on CDs at home. Once their music is learned, it is not put aside to make way for the next new piece, but rather it becomes a new "word" in their musical vocabulary. Even the most advanced students review their earliest repertoire to continue polishing their musical skills.

To further develop each child's abilities, they attend group classes, where they continue to polish their ever-growing repertoire and begin to develop fantastic ensemble playing skills which they will use later in orchestras and chamber music.

The Suzuki Method is a global phenomenon. It has been expanded to include flute, recorder, piano, guitar, bass violin, cello, viola, harp, organ, and even voice. There are over 9,000 teachers and 250,000 students in more than 40 countries worldwide.