“Everyone has a sprout of talent. Developing that sprout into a wonderful ability depends on how it is cultivated” Dr Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998)
Frequently asked questions
Philosophy of learning
The “Mother Tongue” or “Suzuki” Method is a way to learn a musical instrument coupled with a philosophy that embraces the total development of the child. The essence of Dr. Suzuki’s philosophy can be found in the following quote -

“Musical ability is not an inborn talent but an ability which can be developed. Any child who is properly trained can develop musical ability just as all children develop the ability to speak their mother tongue. The potential of every child is unlimited.”

     What's special about Suzuki teaching?
 
 

Listening
Just as children learn to speak in a language-rich environment, Suzuki students are encouraged to have a music-rich environment in their home. They listen daily to the high-quality recordings of the repertoire they are to learn and internalise the sound of the music before they learn to play each piece.

Playing from memory
Once the student is ready to learn a new piece, they naturally and easily transfer what they have heard many times in their recordings to the instrument itself. This “playing by ear” helps develop the students’ musicality and sensitivity and also builds an incredible ability to memorize music.

Ear before Eye
Just as young children learn to read their native language only after they have already learned to speak, Suzuki students learn to play by ear before they learn to read music. This follows the natural developmental process of every child wherein the ear develops before the eye. It allows time for the child to focus on playing their instrument with superior posture, beautiful tone and excellent technique before they are expected to tackle the complexities of learning to read music.

  

Parental Involvement
Suzuki is unique in that it places a great importance on the role of the parent in their child’s education. The parent is seen as an essential element in the “Suzuki Triangle” of teacher, parent and child. The parent attends the child’s lessons and learns to become their child’s “home teacher”. Suzuki parents assist their child to practice effectively and provide encouragement, support and motivation.

Individualised Progress
Suzuki teachers are highly trained professionals who believe that learning music is one of the best ways to support the entire development of a child. Every child is nurtured at their own pace in the weekly individual lesson in a loving atmosphere that is completely non-competitive.

The Suzuki Community
The Suzuki Method has built-in motivation for the students. They are inspired to want to learn all the pieces they have listened to on their recordings and that they have seen older students play. Even more importantly, Suzuki provides an entire community of support for its students. Most Suzuki teachers provide regular concerts and group lessons that children can attend right from the beginning and the Association regularly supports events for the wider community including group lessons, workshops, festivals and concerts.


Frequently asked questions
     Questions frequently asked by parents
   
 

1. At what age should my child start to learn?
Suzuki teachers are trained to teach children as young as three. But learning music is for everyone - it's never too early, it's never too late.

2. Do I need to learn to play as well?
No, and parents don't need a musical background.

3. Will my child learn to read music?
Yes, Suzuki students are versatile musicians - they can both play by ear and sight read music

4. What sort of music will my child learn to play?
Suzuki repertoire begins with some specially written exercises and folk tunes, quickly moving to carefully chosen classical pieces.

5. Will my child be able to join 'non-Suzuki' orchestras?
Yes, orchestra audition requirements recognise the world-wide Suzuki graduation levels.

6.Will my child do music exams?
Suzuki has its own internationally recognised graduation system that involves submitting performance tapes for evaluation, performing at graduation concerts and solo recitals.

7. Will Suzuki prepare my child for a career in music?
Yes, if that is the child's goal.

8.What does it cost to learn by the Suzuki method?
Tuition fees for individual lessions match those of traditionally taught music lessons, as recommended by the Music Teachers Association of SA. The cost of group classes is minimal. Some teachers include these lessons in their term fee.

9. Will we need an instrument before we start?
No. Once you choose a teacher, your teacher will assist in the selection of an appropriate instrument. Beginner instruments don't need to be expensive and can be bought or hired

10. Do we need to join the Suzuki Association?
Yes. The student cannot participate in graduation and the range of fun, motivational activities unless your family are members. Suzuki SA is a non-profit organisation, so the annual membership fee is minimal.