About the SAA

Founded in 1972, The Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA) is a community of 8,000 teachers, parents, educators, and learners dedicated to making music and early childhood education available to all young people in the Americas. We create an international learning community which embraces excellence and nurtures the human spirit, and we work to improve the quality of life in the Americas through the Suzuki Method. We offer a number of professional development opportunities to teachers and have several tools for supporting parents and students. The SAA is officially licensed by the International Suzuki Association to support, guide, and promote Suzuki education in North, Central, and South America. Along with four regional associations, the SAA promotes and supports Dr. Suzuki’s Talent Education.

What we do:

The Suzuki Association offers professional development opportunities, scholarships, a quarterly journal, and community to its members. As a member of our community, you’ll join an international community of leaders, thinkers, and passionate educators who aim to nurture and support young people. Membership offers:

  • Professional Development: Our Teacher Development program offers opportunities for training in the Suzuki philosophy and approach. The Suzuki Method is among the most well-known, and effective methods in the world for students and families to learn and share in music together. Courses taken with the SAA are noted in members’ profiles
  • Scholarships: We offer scholarships for teachers interested in taking our Teacher Development training opportunities.
  • American Suzuki Journal: We offer a quarterly publication with ideas around teaching practice, supporting students, and learning with one another.
  • Community Building & Connection: Attend our conferences, seminars, retreats, and opportunities to collaborate with teachers committed to excellence and nurturing youth!
  • Access to discounts, our membership directory, and several additional resources!

Who is Dr. Shinichi Suzuki?

Born on October 17, 1898, in Nagoya, Japan, Dr. Shinichi Suzuki is the founder of the Suzuki Method. A violinist, philosopher, educator, and leader, Dr. Suzuki believed that all children were capable of developing talent, and a guiding principle of his was “character first, ability second.” His revolutionary contribution to music education focused on the concept that because every child is capable of developing language skills, they are also capable of learning the language of music. He also held that the skills gained from learning music would apply well beyond their music classes, and carry into their lives outside the classroom. Now among the most recognized names and brands in the music education field, his legacy continues to offer the gift of music to many across the world.

What is the Suzuki Method?

The Suzuki Method is how we teach music. Developed by Dr. Suzuki, the Method has several core components. While each teacher might offer their own interpretation of the Method, we have a few core beliefs that guide our work:

  • We believe that all children are capable and deserving of music education! Those of us who practice the Suzuki Method know that talent is learned. With the right support, any child can be successful.
  • We teach music based on how young people learn language – we start with the ear and communication styles, and we build from there. We also encourage students to listen to music!
  • We love having families involved in their student’s learning! Whether it’s a parent, grandparent, guardian, or an adult who is regularly involved in a student’s life, we believe finding an adult that can support a student in their learning – in addition to their teacher – is a wonderful way to support student success.
  • We lead with a positive environment and encouragement in our music lessons.