About the Suzuki Method™

Developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, the Suzuki Method™ has several core components. While each teacher might offer their own interpretation of the Method, we have a few core tenets that guide our work.

  • We believe that all children are capable and deserving of becoming great musicians. The first course in our Teacher Development program is called Every Child Can! because, well, that’s what we believe. Those of us who practice the Suzuki Method know that talent is learned, not inborn. With the right support, every child can be successful.
  • We teach music based on how young people learn language. Dr. Suzuki called this the mother-tongue approach. When teaching young people how to read, we do not ask them to read before they can speak. Young people do not learn words for the purpose of learning to read a book; they learn to speak so that they can express themselves. In our approach, we do the same! We teach students by ear first, and we teach so students can express themselves through music. Each technical exercise is presented within the context of music and intended to develop the ability to communicate through music.
  • We encourage students to listen to music – a LOT. We know children learn words from listening. Similarly, listening to music offers students a bigger vocabulary for musical expression.
  • We love having families involved in student learning. Whether it’s a parent, grandparent, guardian, or an adult who is regularly involved in a young person’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 know that for some students, this may not always be possible. Some of our teachers find creative and innovative ways for additional at-home support – and we encourage this too.
  • We lead with a positive environment and encouragement in our music lessons.
  • In addition to private lessons, students should expect to take part in group lessons and performances. Students are encouraged to learn with and support one another in their growth.
  • The purpose of learning music is not to become a professional musician (though, for some, that’s important too!), but instead, our goal is to support young people in their development as life-long learners with kind hearts! Music gives us skill sets well beyond our instruments, and we focus on developing those skill sets alongside our instrumental technique.

What instruments are taught through the Suzuki Method?

  • Accordion
  • Bass
  • Brass (Trumpet, Trombone, Tuba, Euphonium, French Horn)
  • Cello
  • Suzuki Early Childhood Education
  • Flute
  • Guitar
  • Harp
  • Organ
  • Piano
  • Recorder
  • Suzuki in the Schools
  • Viola
  • Violin
  • Voice

Where do I begin?

You can learn more about the SAA here. If you’re a teacher, we recommend you check out our Teacher Development program to learn more about the types of training we offer. If you’re a parent looking for a teacher, try taking a look at our Teacher Directory or taking our Every Child Can! course to learn more. Finally – JOIN OUR COMMUNITY!