Choosing an Accredited Suzuki Teacher
Suzuki teaching is a highly specialised approach to music education and Suzuki teachers are required to undergo specialised Teacher Training in order to gain their accreditation. Once accredited, Suzuki teachers are expected to engage in ongoing professional development to update and refresh their skills. Only accredited Suzuki teachers who are registered with the Suzuki Association are listed on this website.
Because of the wonderful music included in the Suzuki repertoire and the excellent way it is structured, many non-Suzuki teachers actually use the Suzuki repertoire to teach their students. But just learning the Suzuki pieces doesn’t mean the student is learning by the Suzuki Method!
Only a properly trained Suzuki teacher will understand how the repertoire works to advance and consolidate instrumental skills. Also, there is far more to Suzuki than just the repertoire! Suzuki only functions properly when all the essential elements of the philosophy, the pedagogy and the community work harmoniously together.
Observe the Teacher in Action
All Suzuki teachers have an “open door” philosophy when it comes to lessons. Suzuki students are actively encouraged to watch each other’s lessons as this is a wonderful way to learn and be inspired by others. Similarly, when it comes to choosing a Suzuki teacher you will find that most teachers encourage you to come and observe their teaching first.
Choosing a Suzuki teacher is a very important decision – primarily because you are potentially embarking on a long-term relationship – perhaps ten or fifteen years long! The teachers’ style, manner and expectations need to be a good fit for both you and your child. In the Suzuki philosophy, each of the three elements in the learning situation – the teacher, parent and child take equal importance, so your Suzuki teacher needs to be someone whose skills and guidance you respect.
Communication is important in the parent-teacher relationship, so don’t be afraid to ask potential Suzuki teachers any question that comes to mind. If you don’t have an opportunity to talk to the teacher before or after observing them, ask when a good time would be to call or meet that teacher to ask your questions.
It is also a very good idea to observe a group lesson if the teacher provides them. At the group lesson, you will be able to see a larger group of students taught by the same teacher. You will also meet other Suzuki families who will also be delighted to answer any questions you may have.
It is much better in the long term for you to spend time choosing the Suzuki teacher who will work best for you and your family.
Questions to Ask
• What is the teachers’ background as a musician?
• How advanced are the teachers’ own playing skills?
• What qualifications does the teacher have as a musician?
• What level of Suzuki accreditation does the teacher have?
• How great is the teacher’s commitment to maintaining their Suzuki membership and Professional Development?
• Does the teacher provide regular group lessons and concerts for their students?
• Are the teachers’ students active in the wider Suzuki community?
• What level of time and commitment is expected from the students of this teacher as far as practice, attending lessons and group lessons?
How much does it cost?
Although qualified Suzuki teachers are required to be part of their local Suzuki Association, they still remain independent contractors in their own right. Teachers set their own fees depending on their qualifications and experience. For a general guide on lesson costs, contact the Association.
Other expenses involved in Suzuki include group lessons provided by the individual teacher, and participating in wider Association events such as festivals, concerts and workshops. The best Suzuki teachers will expect their Suzuki families to be active participants in the Suzuki community because getting to know other Suzuki families and playing with other children provide the essential elements of motivation and fun for the students.
Do you need an instrument before beginning classes?
One inevitable cost when commencing music lessons is the expense of buying/hiring and maintaining an instrument. However, depending on the instrument chosen, you may not need an instrument right away. For example, many young violin students start on the “box violin” rather than a real violin in order to master basic beginner skills first.
It is advised not purchase an instrument before commencing lessons with your Suzuki teacher. You will not need an instrument at least for that first lesson and it is important to ask for the help and assistance of your Suzuki teacher to make sure you buy an instrument of the appropriate size and quality. If you already have an instrument you are hoping your child can use, the teacher will need to see and approve the instrument first. Even though your child will be “only” a beginner it is recommended you purchase a good quality instrument to make the learning process an enjoyable and successful experience.