Frequently Asked Questions
"It is necessary to be concerned about the importance of educating a really beautiful human spirit."
-Shinichi Suzuki
-Shinichi Suzuki
WHAT IS THE SUZUKI METHOD?
The Suzuki Method was developed by Japanese violinist/teacher, Shin’ichi Suzuki, who believed that “every child can.” The method is based on the language-learning model of the Mother Tongue, where all children learn their native language through exposure and imitation, and further develop skills through repetition, encouragement, and refinement. Suzuki’s method puts forth a unique Triangle (teacher/parent/child), which allows for a rich opportunity for parents to work with and nurture their child’s development through the pursuit of musical expression and excellence.
The most recent edition of Nurtured By Love is an insightful introduction to Dr. Suzuki and his philosophy. Consider becoming a member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas for ongoing support and additional resources.
HOW IS THE SUZUKI APPROACH DIFFERENT FROM OTHER METHODS?
The biggest differences that set the Suzuki method apart from other traditional methods are: an emphasis on listening, parental involvement, and the unique combination of private and group instruction.
WHY DO FAMILIES JOIN OHSE VIOLIN STUDIO?
IS SUZUKI THE RIGHT METHOD FOR MY FAMILY?
Observations and trial lessons are a commitment free way to help you decide if the method is right for you before you join the studio.
WHAT IF I AM NOT MUSICAL?
Plan to learn alongside your child! In reality, most Suzuki parents have never played an instrument.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD IS READY?
Trial lessons help you understand your child's willingness to interact with an instructor, and ability to follow instructions.
HOW CAN WE HAVE A SUCCESSFUL EXPERIENCE IN THE OHSE VIOLIN STUDIO?
Listen to your Suzuki CD everyday. Practice every day with your child. Attend all classes with your child and take good notes.
HOW MUCH DO WE HAVE TO PRACTICE?
Dr. Suzuki recommended that students “only practice on the days you eat.” Parents of beginners who establish a consistent daily routine of five minutes of practice find that a gradual extension up to 30 minutes happens naturally as the child’s assignment and attention span lengthen.
CAN I ENROLL MY CHILD IN THE STUDIO IF I’M NOT ABLE TO ATTEND THE LESSONS WITH THEM? MAY I SEND MY CHILD TO LESSONS WITH A CAREGIVER?
Your child will learn much more from you. Some parents find they need to make special arrangements to attend lessons such as taking their child out of school early, or taking time away from work.
CAN MY CHILD ENROLL IN THE STUDIO EVEN THOUGH SHE IS 12?
Absolutely! Annalise encourages families to start children as young as 3, simply because learning at this age is primarily imitative, a hallmark of the Suzuki Method, but it is never too late to start!
WILL MY CHILD LEARN TO READ MUSIC?
Absolutely!
WHAT CAN WE DO TO PREPARE?
Begin listening to the Suzuki Book One CD daily!
SHOULD I BUY OR RENT AN INSTRUMENT NOW?
No. Plan to begin lessons without an instrument. Annalise will measure your child for the appropriate size at the appropriate time.
The Suzuki Method was developed by Japanese violinist/teacher, Shin’ichi Suzuki, who believed that “every child can.” The method is based on the language-learning model of the Mother Tongue, where all children learn their native language through exposure and imitation, and further develop skills through repetition, encouragement, and refinement. Suzuki’s method puts forth a unique Triangle (teacher/parent/child), which allows for a rich opportunity for parents to work with and nurture their child’s development through the pursuit of musical expression and excellence.
The most recent edition of Nurtured By Love is an insightful introduction to Dr. Suzuki and his philosophy. Consider becoming a member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas for ongoing support and additional resources.
HOW IS THE SUZUKI APPROACH DIFFERENT FROM OTHER METHODS?
The biggest differences that set the Suzuki method apart from other traditional methods are: an emphasis on listening, parental involvement, and the unique combination of private and group instruction.
WHY DO FAMILIES JOIN OHSE VIOLIN STUDIO?
- To develop focus, concentration, and problem solving skills
- To build confidence
- To learn commitment and responsibility
- To help nourish a strong, unique relationship between parent and child that develops increasing respect and understanding.
- To be part of a larger community of friends and musicians
- To nurture a lifelong love for music
- To experience the joy of making music.
IS SUZUKI THE RIGHT METHOD FOR MY FAMILY?
Observations and trial lessons are a commitment free way to help you decide if the method is right for you before you join the studio.
WHAT IF I AM NOT MUSICAL?
Plan to learn alongside your child! In reality, most Suzuki parents have never played an instrument.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD IS READY?
Trial lessons help you understand your child's willingness to interact with an instructor, and ability to follow instructions.
HOW CAN WE HAVE A SUCCESSFUL EXPERIENCE IN THE OHSE VIOLIN STUDIO?
Listen to your Suzuki CD everyday. Practice every day with your child. Attend all classes with your child and take good notes.
HOW MUCH DO WE HAVE TO PRACTICE?
Dr. Suzuki recommended that students “only practice on the days you eat.” Parents of beginners who establish a consistent daily routine of five minutes of practice find that a gradual extension up to 30 minutes happens naturally as the child’s assignment and attention span lengthen.
CAN I ENROLL MY CHILD IN THE STUDIO IF I’M NOT ABLE TO ATTEND THE LESSONS WITH THEM? MAY I SEND MY CHILD TO LESSONS WITH A CAREGIVER?
Your child will learn much more from you. Some parents find they need to make special arrangements to attend lessons such as taking their child out of school early, or taking time away from work.
CAN MY CHILD ENROLL IN THE STUDIO EVEN THOUGH SHE IS 12?
Absolutely! Annalise encourages families to start children as young as 3, simply because learning at this age is primarily imitative, a hallmark of the Suzuki Method, but it is never too late to start!
WILL MY CHILD LEARN TO READ MUSIC?
Absolutely!
WHAT CAN WE DO TO PREPARE?
Begin listening to the Suzuki Book One CD daily!
SHOULD I BUY OR RENT AN INSTRUMENT NOW?
No. Plan to begin lessons without an instrument. Annalise will measure your child for the appropriate size at the appropriate time.