The Suzuki Method

Dr. Shinichi Suzuki Oct 17/1898 - Jan 26/1998 was a violinist, educator, philosopher, and humanitarian. He believed that the potential of all children can be highly developed if they are given the proper training and learning environment. "Any child who is properly trained can develop musical ability, just as all children develop the ability to speak their mother tongue." All over the world, children learn to speak their native language with ease because they are surrounded by the sound of their mother tongue from the time they are born. The Suzuki Method applies the basic principles of language acquisition to the learning of music.

The mother-tongue approach includes aspects such as listening, step-by step mastery, observation, repetition, group activity, delayed reading (at least until the child is comfortable with the instrument), and parental involvment. The Suzuki Method is also all about encouragment, love and support.

There are numerous positive studies on the relationship between early music education and academics. Musical education and the Suzuki Method help to develop excellent memory skills, listening and practice habits. The Suzuki Method builds confidence, concentration, discipline and self-motivation. The Suzuki Triangle (teacher, parent and child), based on love, caring, encouragement and praise, helps to build a strong sense of self-esteem. Dr. Suzuki never tired of saying of how adults should appreciate the privilege of helping their children to become "fine human beings with beautiful minds and high sensitivity."

For more information about the Suzuki Method, read one of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki's books (see registration information).