Suzuki Cello

We are a certified Suzuki School!

Private Lessons - Early Childhood (4-6) and students 6+

In the Suzuki method, all students follow a similar path of learning with varying forms of instruction. The early childhood (4-6) private lessons consist mostly of instruction through motions and playing, while private lessons for students 6+ consist of these elements alongside more verbal instruction. All students begin with the same repertoire, starting in Suzuki Cello Book 1, and advance at their own individual pace. Parents must attend the lessons and will be asked to take notes.

Why Suzuki?

The Suzuki Method developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki believes that musical ability can be developed in all children. The method emphasizes a nurturing environment, parental involvement, listening, and repetition. Dr. Suzuki found that learning music could be like learning one’s native language – through the natural learning process. Students learn to play before they learn to read – just as they do with speaking. This emphasizes the importance of making a good sound in a balanced and natural way.

The involvement of the student’s parent in lessons is vital in the Suzuki Method. Prior to Suzuki, students attended lessons on their own and then their practice at home was unclear and unproductive. The parent’s involvement allows the parent to have a basic understanding as well as take notes to aid in practice at home. Suzuki saw significant improvement in playing when parents became involved in the lessons.

Dr. Suzuki’s method has enabled children to play music at a higher standard. However, creating professional players was not Suzuki’s final goal. Rather it is to create fine human beings. For children to become, in Suzuki’s words, “happy people of superior ability, and I am devoting all my energies to making this come about, for I am convinced that all children are born with this potential” (International Suzuki Association).

Early Childhood Education group Classes (ages 4-6) Tuesdays 4-4:30 pm

Early Childhood Education classes for cello serve as an introduction to cello for students ages 4-6. This class is rooted in the Suzuki philosophy. In this nurturing, fun, and positive environment, students will find a love for music along with the building blocks of playing through musical games and physical activities fit for any beginner. This class will focus on Suzuki Cello Book 1’s Twinkle Variations to work on our playing position as well as our sound. These Early Childhood Education classes fit nicely alongside the path of Suzuki private lessons. Class attendance is required with private lessons. 

Tuesdays 5-6 pm Suzuki Meet ups for ages 6+

Suzuki Cello group class serves as a vital building block of the Suzuki method. These weekly classes provide students and parents with invaluable benefits such as:

· reinforcement of repertoire/lesson material

· building performance skills

· watching and following the leader

· being a performer

· learning to be an audience member

· having a peer support group

· introducing new techniques such as rhythm, singing, and listening skills in a social setting.

Suzuki Cello gives students the opportunity to create music with their peers and be exposed to the social side of music, distinguishing it from private lessons. Multi-level group classes allow for students at varying levels to make music together while still benefiting each student individually. Through games, exercises, and activities, students learn the vital aspects of becoming a well-rounded musician and person. Suzuki parents can also find benefits in Suzuki Cello. Group classes create a network of parents who can serve as resources to one another as they support their own student musicians. Suzuki is not a journey to be taken on one’s own. Suzuki Cello is a community here to support each student and parent.