What is the Suzuki Method for piano?
The Suzuki method of classical music training was begun in the 1940s in Japan by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, the son of a violin manufacturer and himself a European-trained violinist. After World War II, Suzuki began teaching children as young as four years old on the theory that if all children could learn to speak fluent Japanese - or any other complex language - at a very early age simply by picking it up from their environment, they could also learn music in the same way. Through the technology of recorded music, children could listen and absorb music as they do language. He further believed that any child, regardless of inborn "talent," could be educated to become a fine musician.
His theories proved correct, and his young students soon attracted international attention. The teaching method for violin was introduced in the U.S. in the 1960s and for the piano in the 1970s. Listening to recordings and strong parental involvement with lessons and practicing are two of the distinctive features of Suzuki training.
At what age can Suzuki lessons begin?
Usually at about four or five years old, but it depends on the child. Girls mature somewhat faster than boys, so they may start a bit earlier. If your child is interested in music, curious about the piano, and can sit still for twenty minutes of more at the computer or other activity, he or she may be ready for lessons.
What about learning to read music?
While Suzuki teachers have had astounding results teaching young children to perform music from memory using a rote-learning approach, one criticism has been that the children are not learning to read music. In my studio I combine the rote-learning approach with teaching music reading skills from the very beginning using traditional method books.
What is the role of the parent in Suzuki lessons?
Parents play an important role for young children taking Suzuki lessons. Of first importance is to make sure the Suzuki piano recordings are played frequently at home, at least once a day (this may be done as background music). In addition, one of the parents who is committed to working with the child attends every lesson, takes notes (mostly positive feedback), and helps the child practice at home. This is all done with careful supervision from the teacher so that the student is guaranteed of success. (It is the responsibility of the teacher, not the parent, to handle any discipline problems that may arise at the lesson, primarily through keeping the child focused and interested. Of course, the parent may stop the lesson at any time to ask a question.)
The Suzuki method does not require that the parent have previous musical training. It does, however, require an investment of time, love and patience!
What about older students and adults?
The Suzuki method, especially the use of recorded listening examples, is of great benefit to students of any age. However, the lessons may be handled a bit differently for older students. Some teenagers, for instance, may not want their parent to attend the lesson; others, however, appreciate the feed back that the parent can offer with the teacher's help. Every student is an individual, and adjustments can certainly be made to accomodate any student. Even adults can benefit from Suzuki instruction in addition to traditional material.
If you have any further questions or would like to arrange an interview, please feel free to contact me.