What is The Suzuki Method?

One of the most important aspects of the Suzuki method is it's emphasis on playing from a very young age; the goal here is to develop a child's musical language at a young age as children are capable of learning at an incredible rate. This allows for students to become "musical" -a trait which will stay with them throughout their entire life and spans over more than simply the instrument that they are learning on. 

 

The Suzuki Triangle is arguably the most integral part of the Suzuki Method. The triangle consists of the parent, the student, and the teacher, each being essential pillars for the success of the method. By having parents involved in their child’s lessons and practices it not only builds a strong relationship between the parent and the child, but also ensures learning is more effective by having parents aware of the learning stage that the child is in. This ultimately ensures that the child is able to move forward at a consistent pace.

Suzuki understood the importance of having well trained teachers, who are not simply good at the instrument they play, but also good at teaching. Suzuki teachers are trained to connect with their students on a much deeper and more profound level than contemporary teachers. They also know to spot the best learning style for each student, tailoring their lessons to the individual student. 

The Suzuki method puts a strong emphasis on learning by ear before learning to read written musical notation. Children learn to speak before learning how to read, and so the thought is that children should also learn "the language of music" before learning how it is written. This is why in general the bulk of written musical learning is taught in group classes. 

Each teacher will have their own separate method to teach musical notation, for Start Suzuki this involves making learning as fun and interactive as possible by implementing games in order to keep children engaged and entertained.

Group classes are an integral part of the students' learning plan. Collaboration, teamwork, and socialization with musical peers is not only extremely important for the social development of children, it also creates a culture around music in which a student can grow and develop lasting friendships. 

Public performances starting at a young age are important in order to break the barriers of nervousness and stage fright which are developed at later stages in life. The Suzuki method strongly encourages non-competitive performances in front of peers and in groups. Encouragement of the talents of each student no matter what their ability level is of the utmost importance to the development of a child's musical ability. 

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“Music exists for the purpose of growing an admirable heart.” ~Shinichi Suzuki