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THE SUZUKI METHOD
"Character First, Ability Second." - Dr. Suzuki
The Suzuki Method, created by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, is based on a mother-tongue approach. It aims to develop sensitivity, confidence and to foster well-balanced individuals with loving hearts.
ABILITY DEVELOPMENT
"We are born with a natural ability to learn" - Dr Suzuki
Dr Suzuki believed every child had the ability to learn. With the right environment children ability can be nurtured in every child. The core of the Suzuki Approach are the individual lessons where a supportive environment is given to help grow the childs love for learning. Assisting parents to positively work as the home teacher during the week is also key in developing ability.
MOTHER-TONGUE APPROACH
“Talent is no accident of birth." - Dr Suzuki
Children learn to speak from their parents. The Suzuki method closely follows the parallel with learning language, recommending that musical training should also start from birth (see Music and Movement Classes), and that music should become an important part of the baby’s environment. With technical guidance and listening a child can learn to play before learning to read and write, just like their native tongue. Because of this, children can start as young as three.
LISTENING
“Man is a child of his environment” - Dr Suzuki
A fundamental concept of the Suzuki Method is regular listening to good music, particularly the Suzuki Repertoire. Progress is directly proportional to this listening. If they are doing enough listening, then they are able to self correct, and progress is more efficient, easy and enjoyable. Good recordings also offer a role model for tone and musicality.
REVIEW AND REPETITION
"Knowledge is not a skill, knowledge plus ten thousand times is a skill." - Dr Suzuki
Review and Repetition are key elements to the Method. Through repetition a child can strive to master each step. Suzuki was right in asking his students to repeat skills ten thousand times!
Through continuous review a child aims for mastery of technique and only then may musicality be developed. Through this mastery the real benefits of the Suzuki Method become apparent in the child’s improved concentration, memorization, self-awareness and sensitivity. Qualities, which will enrich the rest of their lives.
TONE
"Beautiful tone, beautiful heart." - Dr Suzuki
From the very beginning the tone, or sound produced through the instrument, is nurtured and developed. Tone helps develop sensitivity, listening skills and is one of the most important techniques taught.
SUZUKI PHILOSOPHY SHORT VIDEO
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