What is the SAA?

The Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA) is a coalition of teachers, parents, educators, and others who are interested in making music education available to all children. The SAA provides programs and services to members throughout North and South America. The SAA is governed by a Board of Directors and managed by a staff in Boulder Colorado. With the International Suzuki Association (ISA) and other regional associations, the SAA promotes and supports the spread of Dr. Suzuki’s Talent Education.

The Suzuki Association of the Americas, Inc. is the not-for-profit organization officially licensed to support, guide and promote Suzuki education in North, Central and South America.

What are some of the SAA’s programs and services?

Teacher Development Program

Opportunities for structured training in the Suzuki philosophy and approach. The SAA has approved training available from registered Teacher Trainers in violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, flute, recorder, guitar, and harp.

Scholarship Program

Scholarships available to assist teachers attending SAA-approved short-term training at week-long summer institutes and long-term training programs at colleges and universities.

American Suzuki Journal

Quarterly publication with stimulating ideas and information for teachers, parents, and others. Includes regular columns with specific ideas for teaching particular instruments and for parenting in the Suzuki context.

Registry Program

Registration of SAA-approved training courses completed by active members.

Teacher Location

Service for parents and programs seeking teachers.

Conferences / Retreats

Meetings featuring master classes, inspiring programs, and opportunities for teachers and parents to share ideas. Special sessions for institute directors and leaders of state and regional associations.

Summer Student Workshops

Approved summer classes at institutes across the country. Opportunities for students and families to participate in Suzuki classes and enrichment courses that motivate and inspire.

Organizational Support

Assistance and networking for regional organizations of parents and/or teachers.

Resource Materials

Access to library of audio and video tapes, research information, etc.

Insurance

Group programs for health and instrument insurance.

Contact the SAA office for more details; email

Last updated July 23 2008

Our Mission

The Suzuki Association of the Americas aspires to improve the quality of life in the Americas through Suzuki education. We seek to create a learning community, which embraces excellence and nurtures the human spirit.

The Suzuki Method

Are you new to the Suzuki Method or do you just want to learn more? Read the Suzuki Twinkler for an introduction to Dr. Suzuki’s education philosophy.

Dr. Suzuki

Shinichi Suzuki, the man who developed the Suzuki Method, died on January 26, 1998, at his home in Matsumoto, Japan. Though he lived to be 99 years old, Dr. Suzuki always seemed young. He was full of energy, and was cheerful and loving to everyone he met. Read more about Dr. Suzuki’s life.