About Suzuki Voice in the SAA

General Description

Suzuki Voice has been specially designed to teach vocal technique in a progressive manner for all ages: prenatal, pre-school, elementary, teenage, and adult. It begins with the understanding that the voice is an instrument and is committed to addressing each student’s unique and individual needs. Founder, Dr. Päivi Kukkämaki, began developing the program in Finland in 1986. Trained teachers now exist in ESA, PPSA, SAA, and TERI.

Suzuki Voice focuses on learning voice as an instrument. The Suzuki Voice Program recognizes that voice is the primary human instrument for music making and is accessible regardless of age. Because of this, technical training can occur earlier than for any other instrument.

Suzuki Method incorporates a ‘triangle’:  parent, teacher and student. Parents are involved in the musical learning of their child just as when a child learns to talk. Parents attend lessons with the child and serve as “home teachers and practice partners” during the week.

The program begins with simple folk songs and graduates to classical songs, providing a solid musical and technical foundation.  As with all Suzuki instruments, classical repertoire forms the foundation and core material.

Features of the Suzuki Voice program are:

  • CDs for listening
  • A positive learning environment
  • Everyday singing and special singing exercises
  • Development of the child’s unique and natural voice
  • Development of listening skills and support of linguistic ability
  • Singing in different languages from around the world
  • Performing at an early age, both solo and in ensemble

The Repertoire

Volumes One and Two repertoire is primarily folk songs. Volume Two expands the singing range and introduces singing in foreign languages, and singing in parts and in canon.

Volume Three repertoire introduces short composed songs in original languages. The child learns about musical periods and specific composers while exploring diverse musical styles. Part-singing and less melodic support in the accompaniments continue to develop vocal independence.

Intermediate repertoire beyond Volume Three continues the study of art song literature from many countries and languages. At this point early Italian arias are added along with exercises supporting the skills and technical development required to sing that repertoire. Part-singing skills and an increasing emphasis on vocal independence are continued.

Advanced studies include more challenging art songs, early Italian arias, exposure to operatic genre and continued technical development.

Active Suzuki Voice Teachers in the SAA

To find a trained Suzuki Voice teacher in your area, use the ‘Find a Suzuki Teacher near you’ link and check that the teacher has registered Suzuki Voice training on their curriculum vitae.

**Additional inquiry can be made to any member of the SAA Voice Committee.

SAA Voice Committee members: