Suzuki Instruction
Violin, Viola, Cello, Guitar, Piano, Flute
Suzuki Philosophy
Music is a Language
The foundational idea of the Suzuki method is that all children can develop the ability to express themselves through music, just as all children develop the ability to express themselves through speech. The underlying assumption is that this ability to “speak” music is desirable, wonderful, and helps the child develop character and beauty. Surround a child with beautiful music. Let him hear it every day just as he hears his native language, and it will become another language he will learn to speak. Put a properly fitting instrument in the hands of the small child and give her excellent, supportive instruction and she will learn to play with beauty and skill. Set high standards and offer constant encouragement and the child will develop the identity and talent of a musician. In fact, she will be a musician. Now she or he may also become a doctor, teacher, business owner, farmer, librarian, lawyer, or electrician, but still a musician.
Every Child Can
Dr. Suzuki was one of the first teachers to assert that Every Child Can learn to play an instrument well. Suzuki students may begin as early as age three, but the method is also effective and rewarding for an older beginner. There are several factors that must be present in order for the musical instruction of the young child to be successful.
They are:
a highly trained teacher who is positive, supportive, and offers “one step at a time” instruction.
an engaged parent (or other significant adults) who structures practice and listening and is also positive and supportive.
an environment filled with beautiful music.
access to a decent, properly sized instrument.
Encouraging Environment
When our child is first learning to speak, we positively encourage them. Children feel motivated to learn when those around them are celebrating the small successes, accurately demonstrating, and breaking large, difficult tasks into smaller, achievable ones. The word Mama, for instance is spoken many times articulately and excitedly, “ma-ma. Maaaa-maaa;” each time encouraging the child to repeat. Children enjoy practicing their language on their own and with others. Suzuki lessons consist of private instruction and group lessons so that children may find joy in practicing with others.
Suzuki Instruction at the Music Academy
Our Suzuki artist-faculty members are extensively trained in the Suzuki method.
We see our Suzuki students twice a week. A private lesson allows each child to develop techniques and progress at his or her own pace. The group classes offer the opportunity to review the skills learned in the private lesson while adding the important ensemble skills necessary to perform with others. The group class also adds the social aspect of making music with other children. Group classes offer a very cost-effective way for faculty to support student growth.
We teach one step at a time. We maintain high standards of beautiful sound and posture. Students begin reading music when they are developmentally ready and have mastered the proper posture and tone production. Students participate in a group class and an individual lesson every week. Group classes are essential to developing good intonation, cooperation, and joy in playing. Individual lessons are important for tending to individual needs and maintaining rapid enough progress to make the experience interesting and satisfying.
It’s great fun and hard work.
At the Music Academy we believe:
the study of music teaches sensitivity, discipline, and endurance.
Every Child Can learn to express themselves through music.
children learn at different and inconsistent rates, which do not determine ultimate success, so do not give up!
to be successful, a child needs to be surrounded by adults who appreciate and are committed to the value of an aesthetic education for the child
Learning is a group effort: we are a community and encourage our own and each other’s children to succeed!
Call to Register: 815-986-0037 OR
Complete a New Student Form
Suzuki Instruction Tuition includes weekly private lessons and weekly group lessons. For more information about group lessons, visit our SATURDAY GROUP LESSONS page.
…each semester Suzuki Students at The Music Academy Receive:
16 Private Lessons
12 Repertoire Classes
12 Music Theory/Reading Classes
12 Weekly Ensemble Rehearsal (when appropriate)
1 Solo recital
1 Suzuki Book Recital
1 Activities Concert
Showcase Concerts (yearly)
Workshops with guest artists (yearly)
Additional Performing Opportunities
“What is man’s ultimate direction in life? It is to look for love, truth, virtue, and beauty”