WHAT IS IN A LESSON?
SUZUKI PHILOSOPHY
“Knowledge is not skill.
Knowledge plus ten thousand times is skill.”
- Schinichi Suzuki
This studio is based in Suzuki pedagogy, also known as Talent Education by the founder Schinichi Suzuki. He believed that talent is not inborn, it is developed through quality teaching, consistent practice, and a nurturing encouraging environment. Suzuki developed this strong belief that every person can learn after observing how children all around the world can speak their native language with ease regardless of their class, race or IQ. Though learning a language is "easier" as a child, many adults have successfully learned new languages later in life. The Suzuki method applies the basic principles of language acquisition to the learning of music.
LISTENING
Developing the Ear
Children learn words after hearing them spoken hundreds of times by others. Listening to music every day is critically important, especially listening to pieces that the student plans to learn - like those in the Suzuki repertoire, so the student knows them immediately.
REPETITION
Developing the Muscles & Memory
Constant 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.
ENCOURAGEMENT
Developing Character
As with language, the student’s effort to learn an instrument should be met with sincere praise and encouragement. Each student learns at his/her own rate, building on small steps so that each one can be mastered. Students are also encouraged to support each other’s efforts, fostering an attitude of generosity and cooperation.
GRADED REPERTOIRE
Developing Technique & Finesse
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. Some secondary exercises like scales will be used to reinforce skills learned through the repertoire.
LEARNING WITH OTHERS
Developing Interpersonal Skills
In addition to private lessons, students are encouraged to participate in regular group lessons and performances at which they learn from and are motivated by each other.
THEORY & READING
Developing the Language
Children learn to read after their ability to talk has been well established. In the same way, students should develop basic technical competence on their instruments before being taught to read music. While these skills are being developed students are introduced to fundamental components of music theory, rhythm and music notation according to their skill level so when they are ready to start reading the transition is fairly smooth.
IMPROVISATION
Developing Creativity & Musicality
Even though people may speak a common language, it is the words they choose, their inflection, their unique voice, which allows them to develop and communicate their individuality. Musical improvisation, just like conversation, is a medium for expressing the soul. Students are encouraged to develop the tools of self expression through improvisation exercises developed by Alice Kay Kanack through her program "Creative Ability Development."
Studio Spring Recital 2017
Learning about Bach & major scales at group class
Teamwork exercises
Studio Spring Recital 2017