What is the Suzuki Method?

 

     Introduced in 1964 to the Western world, first to the U.S. and Canada and then to Europe and the Pacific countries, this method has truly revolutionized how music is taught to children.  Often referred to as the "mother tongue method of learning", it has resulted in a ground swell of interest in playing string instruments.  As string instruments grew in popularity, other instruments were introduced such as piano, flute, guitar, and harp. The ideas of the philosophy have also been used in early childhood general education.

 

     There are several key factors that are included in the Method, some of which are a departure from more traditional modes of teaching music:

          ~all children possess amazing potential for learning, anyone can learn!

          ~instruction can begin as early as three years of age

          ~listening to recordings of the repertoire is the key to aural development and learning

          ~reading is delayed until one gains substantial control of the instrument, position and intonation

          ~parents are trained to become the "home teacher"

          ~encouragement is one of the most important elements of the method

          ~group classes develop ensemble skills, build close friendships, and motivate the child

          ~frequent performances, both formal and informal, build confidence in the player

 

     Dr. Suzuki has helped dispel the idea that one must have a special "talent" in order to learn music. Music is a part of every human soul, and each child has the potential to reach a high degree of success. What are the ingredients that help this to happen? ...a strong home environment of love, encouragement, consistent work habits, a good parent, and a well trained teacher who loves and respects children.  At ITE we have only highly trained teachers, two of whom are certified Teacher Trainers in the Suzuki Method, all of whom love and respect children.   
 

     The reward for dedicated effort is the joy of shared achievement, and the fulfilling experience of beautiful music making.

 

What is the Suzuki Method?

     Introduced in 1964 to the Western world, first to the U.S. and Canada and then to Europe and the Pacific countries, this method has truly revolutionized how music is taught to children.  Often referred to as the "mother tongue method of learning", it has resulted in a ground swell of interest in playing string instruments.  As string instruments grew in popularity, other instruments were introduced such as piano, flute, guitar, and harp. The ideas of the philosophy have also been used in early childhood general education.

     There are several key factors that are included in the Method, some of which are a departure from more traditional modes of teaching music:
          ~all children possess amazing potential for learning, anyone can learn!
          ~instruction can begin as early as three years of age
          ~listening to recordings of the repertoire is the key to aural development and learning
          ~reading is delayed until one gains substantial control of the instrument, position and intonation
          ~parents are trained to become the "home teacher"
          ~encouragement is one of the most important elements of the method
          ~group classes develop ensemble skills, build close friendships, and motivate the child
          ~frequent performances, both formal and informal, build confidence in the player

     Dr. Suzuki has helped dispel the idea that one must have a special "talent" in order to learn music. Music is a part of every human soul, and each child has the potential to reach a high degree of success. What are the ingredients that help this to happen? ...a strong home environment of love, encouragement, consistent work habits, a good parent, and a well trained teacher who loves and respects children.  At ITE we have only highly trained teachers, two of whom are certified Teacher Trainers in the Suzuki Method, all of whom love and respect children.   

     The reward for dedicated effort is the joy of shared achievement, and the fulfilling experience of beautiful music making.

---

"All children throughout the world speak their native tongues with the utmost fluency ... Does that not show a startling talent?"

"Ability develops through practice."

"Good environmental conditions and a fine education cannot help but bring children genuine welfare and happiness, as well as promising light and hope for the future of mankind."

"Talent is not inborn, it has to be created."

"I firmly believe that any child can become superior, and my confidence has never been betrayed."

"Every child can be educated: it is only a matter of the method of education. Poor training produces poor ability. People should make every effort, even though it be difficult, to accumulate and build superior ability"

"We are all born with a high potential, and if we try hard we can all become superior human beings and acquire talent and ability."

~Dr. Shinichi Suzuki