Suzuki Program
The Suzuki method, which has been utilized for teaching musical instruments for more than fifty years, is based on the educational philosophy that "every child can be educated." This philosophy is rooted in the concept that children learn music the same way that all children learn to speak language: by imitating what they hear around them; the method, therefore, is labeled the Mother Tongue approach. In the Suzuki program, students initially learn to play by ear through modeling and repeated listening to recordings. A note-reading class is introduced when the student has achieved a degree of proficiency and coordination on the instrument.
The strength of the Suzuki method is dependent upon the symbiotic triangle of the teacher, child, and parent. The parent attends every lesson with the child so that he or she may function as the daily home teacher, carefully monitoring the child’s practice. Parents' Classes are compulsory for all participants in the program. We encourage parents to become involved in the Prep Center community by taking part in the Suzuki Parents’ Committee.
Children in the Suzuki program participate in four solo and group performances throughout the school year. There are 28 lesson and class weeks. First-year beginners take part in part in performances at the discretion of the instructor and Program Director.
Suzuki Program Classes for Violin and Cello
Private Lesson (30, 45, or 60 minutes weekly)
Parents' Class
The parent working with the child at home is the one who must attend all lessons and Parents’ Classes. In this class, the parent learns to play the instrument in order to facilitate serving as the teacher at home. In addition to attending all individual lessons, parents must record (either audio- or video-tape) each lesson; these recordings will serve as a guide to home practicing. (45 minutes weekly)
Group Class
Group Classes develop a child’s self confidence by providing a regular forum for performing both solo and group pieces. Group Classes are scheduled for 30, 45, or 60 minutes, according to age and level and determined by the Director of the Suzuki Program. (30 minutes weekly for beginners; 60 minutes weekly for 2nd- year students)
Music and Movement
This class, designed as the first structured music class for children 3 to 6 years old, precedes I Can Read Music in the Suzuki Programs. Based upon the principles of Emile Jacques-Dalcroze, this approach to music education incorporates rhythmic movement and aural training, as well as physical, vocal, and instrumental improvisation. Children learn while doing what they love most: walking, running, skipping, singing, and playing instruments. The class also provides an opportunity for children to interact with other children in their age group. (45 minutes weekly)
I Can Read Music
A note-reading class for students who have achieved a degree of proficiency and coordination on the instrument. (45 minutes weekly)
Young Children's Chorus
Introduction to group singing for children ages 5–8. Children have the opportunity to do both unison and some part-singing. Music reading not required. (45 minutes weekly)
The Suzuki Program for Flute and Recorder for Children
Private Lesson (30, 45, or 60 minutes weekly)
Music and Movement
This class, designed as the first structured music class for children 3 to 6 years old, is based upon the principles of Emile Jacques-Dalcroze. The Dalcroze approach to music education incorporates rhythmic movement and aural training, as well as physical, vocal, and instrumental improvisation. Children learn while doing what they love most: walking, running, skipping, singing, and playing instruments. The class also provides an opportunity for children to interact with other children in their age group. (45 minutes weekly)
Young Children's Chorus
Introduction to group singing for children ages 5–8. Children have the opportunity to do both unison and some part-singing. Music reading not required. (45 minutes weekly)
