Dr Suzuki’s idea
The Suzuki method was developed by Japanese violinist and master teacher Doctor Shinichi Suzuki. Suzuki’s philosophy was that every child can learn to play the same way they learn to speak their first language. A child learns to speak by hearing others speak around them, mimicking their sounds, and repeating sounds and words over and over again. A child who is learning to speak also receives a lot of encouragement and support from their environment. In the same way, the Suzuki method can develop the child’s musical skills when the parents create a musical environment for the child in accordance with this “Mother Tongue Method” and encourage the child to listen to and practise music.
Focusing on listening
Children are given the opportunity to start learning at a very young age when their innate learning ability is naturally powerful. They will learn to play before they learn to read sheet music. They can focus on their posture and on listening to their own playing as their musical ear develops. The ability to really hear and listen is very valuable. Children will learn to read sheet music as their studies progress.
Ensemble playing
Ensemble playing is a part of Suzuki instruction from the start. In addition to the weekly lessons, the child will take part in a group lesson. In these group lessons, the child gets to practise their skills in ensemble playing. They also develop their social and team-working skills and get to feel that they belong in a group.
Education goes hand in hand with playing
The Suzuki method is much more than learning to play. In addition to learning the joy of playing, the child learns to develop performance skills, to respect others, to focus on listening, and to understand diversity. The children will build their experience by performing in different events throughout the year and learn concert behaviour on the go.
More information:
www.europeansuzuki.org
www.suomensuzukiyhdistys.net
