What is the Suzuki Method?

So, you’re interested in having your child take piano lessons and you’re considering using the Suzuki method?…or you might just be curious about what’s involved and how the Suzuki method works? You might also wonder how a Suzuki teacher approaches certain aspects of pedagogy (the method of teaching). Read on to find out what the essential elements of the Suzuki teaching philosophy are and how they are applied at Passion-4-Music.

Contrary to what some people might think, the primary goal of the Suzuki method of teaching music is not to produce or “discover” child prodigies. Dr. Suzuki established this method to provide a fun way to foster development of the total child. Through the process of learning music in a loving and caring environment, children will develop skills such as focus and concentration, a high sense of values, attention to detail, patience, confidence, self-discipline, time management, dedication, fine motor skills, and listening skills that will stay with them for the rest of their lives and apply in their families and future careers.

Dr. Shin'ichi Suzuki, the third child of twelve children, was born in 1898, and was 17 years old when he first started playing the violin. He soon realized that young children learn music the same way they learn language – by repetition and exposure; this is called the “Mother Tongue” method. He believed that musical ability is not an inborn talent but an ability which can be developed, and that the potential of every child is unlimited. Children are a product of their environment and what we do, as parents and teachers, shapes their outcome. “Character first, ability second” was the motto at a school he attended, and that has become fundamental in the philosophy of this teaching method.

 

Parents of a Suzuki student must have a high level of commitment in order for the student to succeed in the program. Like many things in life, you only get out of it what you put into it. Less practice leads to slower (or non-existent) progress. More frequent and efficient practice lead to more successful progress and increased confidence. Think of it this way: Practice only on the days you eat. We recommend having a practice schedule that incorporates music (playing, listening, and attending live performances) multiple times a day, gradually increasing in length and intensity as the student matures. Younger children will need shorter, more frequent sessions, and more parental involvement.

 

Children love traditions, repetition, and routine. Use this to your advantage! You and your child can listen to Suzuki pieces/songs while getting ready in the morning and cooking dinner, and you can listen to quality music on the radio while running errands in the car and practice any time of day that works for you and your family. Nobody is “too busy” to practice. We all choose what to do with our time.

 
The fundamental building blocks of the Suzuki method include the following:
~An early beginning: As early as 3 years old for instrument study. The younger the student, the more parental involvement is crucial for successful results.
~Listening: Both passive and active, multiple times a day
~A Positive, Caring Environment: Both at home and in the studio, parents and teacher are specific in praise regarding the student’s playing, behavior, etc, to build the child’s confidence
~Repetition: Dr. Suzuki said, “Ability equals knowledge plus 10,000 times.”
~Small Steps: Broken down in a way that is best suited to each child individually
~Common Repertoire: Carefully planned pieces that gradually increase in difficulty
~Review: Playing pieces already learned to increase student’s confidence and level of mastery
~Suzuki “Triangle”: Child – Parent – Teacher is an equilateral symbol of commitment, love, respect, and trust. When peers are added, this becomes a three-dimensional pyramid including learning from other children.
~Group Classes and Private Lessons: Both are essential for a well-rounded learning process.

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There are also benefits for the parents. Many parents and caregivers of Suzuki students have said that they have developed a strong bond with their child through studying Suzuki method together! The parents' appreciation for music is also greatly enhanced. 

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Suzuki students at Passion-4-Music are taught to read traditional music notation in gradual increments. As they develop good playing habits and can produce a quality tone, they will be introduced to traditional musical symbols/notation in an age- and level-appropriate way. Reading traditional notation is taught as the student matures and his/her playing ability and repertoire increase.

 

At Passion-4-Music, we allow children to learn at their own pace. There is no pre-determined rate of
learning expected of students. A non-competitive approach is best; don’t compare your child or yourself to
anyone else! There is no “finish line.” We believe as Dr. Suzuki did – that Every Child Can! Commitment
is paramount but must be balanced with realistic expectations and a loving, caring approach. When parents
understand their role and the commitment necessary for this very special relationship, their children are far
more likely to blossom into the young people of character that we, as parents and teachers, strive for. Our
sincere desire is to give you and your student hope and a promise for the future and tap into your child’s
unlimited potential through the love and learning of music.

“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Prov. 22:6