6 WEEK INTRODUCTION COURSE

For beginning piano students, I have created an 6 week course that applies to all ages. No books or materials are needed. The focus is to enjoy the piano, explore what is going on, find patterns, and create beautiful music together. The entire point of the course is to have fun and lay a foundation for learning that is based on listening and enjoyment of the piano. The start of the suzuki method is woven into this introductory course.

Parents of beginning students are required to read Suzuki's book: Nurtured by Love. You can order it online or read on your kindle. If you need a copy, let me know.

THE SUZUKI METHOD

Suzuki teaching is based on a philosophy of respect for the child. All children are respected as unique human beings.They are capable of developing their musical abilities just as well as they develop their linguistic abilities.

Essential principles of the Suzuki teaching method are: listening, learning by ear, tonalization, parent involvement and attendance at lessons, encouragement, step-by-step mastery, and reading after physical control of playing is achieved.

The main goals of the “Suzuki method” are for the child to build a noble soul, to develop an appreciation of beauty, to learn the discipline of acquiring a skill and to become a fine human being. With the proper education and environment, every child can learn to play a musical instrument. Talent can be learned, ability can be developed, and, just as each child learns to speak his native language, he can learn a musical skill through the “mother tongue” approach.

The fate of a child is in the hands of the parents.

— Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

Parental Involvement:

The Suzuki approach relies on the cooperative relationship of teacher, parent, and student. The parent role involves the following:

• Learning the fundamentals of playing the instrument

• Attending each lesson with the child, taking notes, and assisting the child in practice at home;

• Playing the recordings at home on a daily basis

• Helping to create not only a musical environment for the child, but also a total environment of affection, support, encouragement, and understanding.

Parents do not need to be a musician to be a good “home teacher.” With the teacher’s guidance, the parent can help with learning notes, fingerings, posture, and later on with note reading and theory. The most important single ingredient for success is the parent’s willingness to devote regular time to work closely with the child and the teacher.

Parents will be required to read "Nurtured by Love" by Suzuki. Please purchase this and read during your child's first 2 months of lessons.

TRADITIONAL (Note reading) METHOD

For students who are ready to begin reading music, this method is taught in tandem with suzuki, as the student is ready. The appropriate method books and resources differ with each student. You will discuss these materials with your teacher. See Registration Page at the bottom for list of books used.