Core Curriculum

The Suzuki approach is grounded in the belief that with the right support and setting, nearly everyone is capable of learning to play an instrument. This method emphasizes the importance of listening, imitation, and repetition, allowing individuals to engage with music as if it were their first language. Dr. Suzuki’s philosophy, which is referred to as ‘Talent Education’, focuses on music’s ability to inspire the spirit and create well-rounded human beings with an appreciation for beauty.

The essence of the learning journey is found in the private instrumental lesson. Each week, the instructor guides your child in mastering new techniques to foster improvement. Recognizing the need for structure and support in young learners, parents attend every lesson, take notes, and engage in discussions with the teacher. This collaboration allows parents to bring home the techniques learned, creating an environment conducive to daily practice. Through this involvement, parents play a vital role in helping their child consistently revisit the goals set during lessons, guiding them towards meaningful and reflective learning experiences.

Just like the way we acquire language skills in stages, the Suzuki method guides students through a structured learning journey by employing specific repertoires—thoughtfully curated and sequenced songs that help learners elevate their abilities. These musical pieces differ depending on the instrument. Dr. Suzuki, a violinist himself, initially crafted a repertoire for the violin, but since then, similar collections have been created for various instruments, including piano, flute, and guitar.

​The Suzuki method of teaching music emphasizes memorization and listening in the early stages, and then introduces note reading after students have mastered basic playing skills. This is similar to language learning, where reading skills develop after speaking and comprehension. Suzuki teachers decide when a student is ready to learn to read music, and it’s important to dedicate daily time to developing this skill.

Daily listening is a fundamental aspect of the Suzuki Method. By regularly listening to the pieces they will be learning, students become familiar with the music, making it easier for them to learn and play. This practice mirrors how children learn to speak by listening to their native language, creating a natural and intuitive learning process.

Consistent listening helps students internalize the music, allowing them to focus on technique and expression during practice. It also helps maintain and build their skill base, ensuring that they continue to progress and refine their abilities over time.