SUZUKI PHILOSOPHY

What is the Suzuki Philosophy?  Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, renowned violin teacher, developed a method of teaching violin to children. The Suzuki Method's goals include so much more than learning to play the violin.  They also include developing an appreciation of beauty, giving a sense of purpose to life, learning the discipline of acquiring a skill and becoming a fine human being.
 

Every Child Can

o   All children, with proper environment and training can develop music skills.

o   Music is not an inborn talent but an ability that can be developed with the proper education. 

 

Environment nurtures growth
o "Man is a child of his environment"
o   All children learn from their environment. 

 

Parental Involvement Is Crucial

o "Children learn to smile from their parents" (Parents are influential teachers).

o   Suzuki triangle: communication between parent, child, and teacher is key.

Ability Develops Early 
o   Research shows that children start learning in their mother's womb.
o   Never underestimate young children's ability to absorb and learn through observation and imitation.

Listening
o   Listening is crucial to developing a concept of beautiful tone.
o   When learning by rote, listening is crucial since it provides a mental roadmap for pieces.

Character First 
o   Music study a way to develop character, nurture human beings.
o “Music exists for the purpose of growing an admirable heart” - Shinichi Suzuki

Repetition 
o   Mindful and correct repetitions lead to mastery.
o "Knowledge + 10 000 = ability" - Shinichi Suzuki

Review
o   Review pieces to increase your ability.

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Success breeds success!

Encouragement is essential!

Children learn from one another.

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Jenna's Suzuki Teaching Certification
Every Child Can! - 2007 - Pat D'Ercole
Suzuki Early Childhood Education Prenatal and Early Years, Stage 1 - Sharon Jones
Violin Unit 1 - 2008 - Pat D'Ercole
Violin Unit 1 - 2010 - Nancy Lokken
Violin Unit 2 - 2008 - Pat D'Ercole
Violin Unit 3 - 2008 - Pat D'Ercole 
Violin Unit 4 - 2008 - Pat D'Ercole 
Violin Unit 5 - 2008 - Pat D'Ercole 
Violin Unit 6 - 2008 - Pat D'Ercole
Violin Unit 7 - 2008 - Pat D'Ercole 
Violin Unit 8 - 2008 - Pat D'Ercole 
Violin Unit 9 - 2009 - Carol Dallinger

Violin Unit 10 - 2009 - Carol Dallinger

Supplemental Professional Development

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Creative Ability Development - Alice Kanack (2024 & 2025)

Violin Intensive - Elizabeth Faidley (2021)

Vibrato Workshop - Amy Beth Horman (2021)

Left Hand Development SAA Teacher Enrichment Course  - 2013, Teri Einfeldt

Group Class Teaching - 2013 - Carol Dallinger
Development of Technique and Musicianship Across the Suzuki Repertoire: Violin - 2009, Alice Joy Lewis

      "There is no born genius. Education is the way to develop ability." - Shinichi Suzuki