A Short History of the Suzuki Method

Dr. Shinichi Suzuki was a Japanese violinist who spent time in Germany studying music. While there, Suzuki decided to learn the German language. While observing how children learned their mother tongue, Suzuki was struck by a couple things:

1. All children learn to speak their mother tongue – even a difficult language like Japanese.

In the same way, Suzuki teachers believe that every child can learn to play the violin, no matter their age or circumstances.

2. Parents never doubt that their child will learn to speak. They are constantly encouraging their child and learning new words comes naturally in a positive, loving environment.

   
   

Suzuki Method teachers work with the parents to create an enthusiastic and positive environment. Parents observe all lessons and serve as practice partners during home practice.

3. Children are constantly surrounded by their language in their natural environment.

   
   

Listening to their Suzuki CD (a recording of the music in the Suzuki repertoire) is a required daily action, reinforced by the parent at home. Listening to music develops self-correction – children will automatically mimic the high quality of tone, technique, and musicality on the Suzuki CD.

4. Children absorb new words like sponges between the ages of 3-5. Young minds are more neurologically receptive to aural learning and seemingly never tire.

   
   

While traditional music teachers start music lessons at age 7 or 8, Suzuki teachers believe that the young minds and bodies of 2 or 3 year olds is the ideal time to start lessons. We also know that it is never too late to learn. In fact, Dr. Suzuki didn’t start lessons until he was 17!

5. Once children learn a new word, they add it to their vocabulary and continue using it for the rest of their lives.

   
   

Review is an important part of the Suzuki Method. As we learn new pieces and techniques, we add them to our toolbox and constantly review.

6. Children feed off of interactions with other children.

   
   

One of the most important facets of the Suzuki Method is group class. Suzuki once said, “It’s a great joy for children to play with friends. They start to play vigorously as though waking from slumber.” Certain techniques are also easier to teach in a group setting.