An internationally known music curriculum and teaching philosophy, Suzuki teaching is based on respect for each child’s uniqueness and the belief that all children possess natural ability that develops according to the level of support and education they receive. This ability is nurtured via the combined efforts of the student, the teacher and the parent(s) working as a team. The Suzuki Method is modeled on the way a child learns their first language: through listening, repetition, positive reinforcement and gentle yet specific guidance. Beginners learn to play by ear by listening to recordings of the Book 1 repertoire, played at home by the parents who also attend lessons and coach practice sessions.
Through the Suzuki approach to piano, children start developing a strong technique right from the first lessons as well as a sensitive ear that leads them to find their notes on the keyboard and relate the sound to the keys. The first level introduces the main elements of classical piano repertoire so that students experience playing with a variety of articulations, dynamics (volume of sound), and left hand accompaniment patterns, while learning by ear. Learning from written notation is introduced in the second level, connecting the concepts they have experienced to printed symbols and terms.
The Suzuki piano program at the VCM offers a pre-reading musicianship class for young learners, Mini-Twinklers, introducing the basics of music notation in fun interactive games. Students may make musical alphabet snakes, play Line or Space Note Bingo, write their own rhythms with manipulative materials, or learn musical terms with movement games.
Students may start Suzuki piano lessons at 3 or 4 years old, but it can be a successful approach for any age. Young students start with 15-minute weekly lessons plus the pre-reading class, while older beginners can register for a 30-minute lesson that will include some pre-reading games. Students who are registered in both private lessons and Mini-Twinklers receive a discount on their private lesson tuition.
Suzuki Piano tuition includes:
- 19 individual studio lessons per term
- 19 group classes per term
For questions, email Nancy Curry or call us to register at 250.386.5311
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