The Suzuki Method

The Suzuki method of music instruction was developed over 50 years ago by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki of Matsumoto, Japan. The method is based on the concept that every child’s innate talent can be nurtured. A child can be taught music at a very early age much the same way that he learns to speak his native tongue — through listening, repetition, and encouragement.

The triangular arrangement of teacher, parent, and child is key to success through early childhood, and leads to increasing independence and self-motivation in the teenage years. Skills developed while learning an instrument include concentration, coordination, memory, increased attention span, respect for others, and working together.

Dr. Suzuki emphasized that his ultimate goal was to develop the natural musical ability of a child for his or her own happiness.