The Suzuki Method
Dr. Shinichi Suzuki
More than fifty years ago, Japanese violinist Dr. 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.
Dr. Suzuki based his approach on the belief that “musical ability is not an inborn talent but an ability which can be developed. Any child who is properly trained can develop musical ability, just as all children develop the ability to speak their mother tongue. The potential of every child is unlimited.”
Dr. Suzuki’s goal was not simply to develop professional musicians, but to nurture loving human beings and help develop each child’s character through the study of music.
About the Method
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Parent Involvement
As when a child learns to talk, parents are involved in the musical learning of their child. They attend lessons with the child and serve as “home teachers” during the week. One parent often learns foundational skills before the child, so that they understand what the child is expected to do. Parents work with the teacher to create an enjoyable learning environment.
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Listening
Children learn words after hearing them spoken hundreds of times by others. Listening to music every day is important, especially listening to pieces in the Suzuki repertoire so the child knows them immediately.
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Early Beginning
The early years are crucial for developing mental processes and muscle coordination. Listening to music should begin at birth; formal training may begin at age three or four, but it is never too late to begin.
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Repetition
Consistent and intentional repetition is essential in learning to play an instrument. Children do not learn a word or piece of music and then discard it. They add it to their vocabulary or repertoire, gradually using it in new and more sophisticated ways.
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Encouragement
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. Children are also encouraged to support each other’s efforts, fostering an attitude of generosity and cooperation.
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Learning with Others
In addition to private lessons, children participate in regular group lessons and performance at which they learn from and are motivated by each other.
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Sequenced Repertoire
Children do not practice exercises to learn to talk, but use language for its natural purpose of communication and self-expression. Pieces in the Suzuki repertoire are designed to present technical problems to be learned in the context of the music rather than through dry technical exercises.
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Delayed Reading
Children learn to read after their ability to talk has been well established. in the same way, young children should develop basic technical competence on their instruments before being taught to read music. Students around age 8 and up learn note reading sooner.
Ready to begin?
There is a reason the Suzuki method is the most well known approach to learning the violin! Families in our studio are loving, supportive, and dedicated. Our community of violin families in Lynchburg is special, and we want you to join us!
The main concern for parents should be to bring up their children as noble human beings. That is sufficient. If this is not their greatest hope, in the end the child may take a road contrary to their expectations. Children can play very well. We must try to make them splendid in mind and heart also.
— Dr. Shinichi Suzuki