The Suzuki method, also called Talent Education was developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998), a Japanese violinist. It is based on certain fundamental ideas as follows:

• Early Beginning
• Emphasis on Listening
• Reading Music
• One-Step-at-a-Time
• Repertoire
• Parental Involvement
• Group Involvement

The Suzuki philosophy embraces the belief that anyone can learn to play an instrument just as he learns to speak his native tongue.

The course of learning parallels the same course that children experience from infancy in learning  language skills:

1. At a very early age, the child is surrounded by others speaking the language.
2. After observing others speak, the child develops a desire to speak. Exactly when this happens  is  determined by the individual child.
3. The parents continuously praise his attempts, no matter how imperfect, knowing that with constant  encouragement and good examples the child will eventually acquire the skills necessary for speaking.
4. Although the child has the ability to speak much earlier, reading the language is not taught until the eyes have developed, at about age 6.

How does Suzuki transfer these conditions to Piano Playing? By educating the parents to create the proper environment. Compare the following with the 4 conditions for learning to speak:

1. At a  very early age, the child should be surrounded by others playing at childrens’ concerts, lessons,adult concerts, on the radio, recordings – even hearing mom,dad or siblings practicing!
2. After observing others play,  the child develops a desire to play.  Exactly when this happens is determined by the individual child.   LESSONS BEGIN
3. The parents continuously praise his attempts no matter how imperfect, knowing that with constant encouragement and good examples (a good teacher and high-quality recordings of his pieces), the child will eventually acquire the skills necessary for playing.
4. Although the child plays much earlier,reading is not taught until the eyes have developed, at about age six.

What course of instruction is appropriate for my child? Suzuki instruction is suitable for beginners ages 4-7 whose parents are able to supervise practice and attend a majority of lessons. Older beginners and transfer students will be assessed individually to receive comprehensive instruction tailored for their needs.