Teens

This new column will feature a variety of brief tips for Suzuki teachers. To submit your own tip of 150 or fewer words, please email [javascript protected email address] with “Grace Notes” in the subject line.

The following tips were presented during the session “Great Ideas for Your Studio: Mini-Presentations” at the 9th SAA Leadership Retreat in May 2011.

Correct posture is a key element of playing with ease and producing a beautiful tone. At the first lesson, after you have shown the child and parent the best posture, ask them to take a picture of the student during home practice and bring it to…

Read more of Grace Notes: Brief Tips for Suzuki Teachers »

Last summer, focus groups at summer Institutes were asked to submit questions for a panel of “Suzuki Experts” to answer. This is the 8th installment.

What are good ways to keep students involved through Junior and Senior High?

This is such a great question. Teens are involved in so many activities that are demanding of their time—not to mention homework. Helping them keep a good attitude about their music is critical. Time encroachments mean less time to practice and when a teen feels unprepared, they can become defensive, sullen, and apathetic. I always say as long as they keep a good attitude in their lessons and are open for learning, I can deal.

Read more of Ask the Experts #8: Teens »