What does Suzuki Method consist of?
Learning by listening:
In order for children to get the most of the Suzuki Guitar Method, students must understand the music by listening to the pieces to the point where they are singing them. Because of this the parents are responsible for playing the book 1 recording for the child at home daily. The learning of the playing the pieces on the guitar come from the student, not from the teacher, parent, or reading the book. Just like learning our native language we learn to speak by copying the sounds and words we are exposed to. To ensure success with this the role parent is to encourage and assist the child and the role of the teacher is to help refine, encourage, and reinforce the skills the child applies at home.
The role of the parent:
The role of the parent is too support the child during their musical experience. This is done by playing the Book 1 recording daily, practicing with the student, providing encouragement,and teaching and reinforcing the material from the weekly lessons. Because of this parents are required to not only be present but also be involved in every lesson. This establishes the bond for the student between them and the parent and teacher. In addition the parent can teach just like the teacher. While at home the parent is responsible for creating a positive in home environment. For these reasons in the Suzuki method the parent is also known as the ‘In-Home Teacher’.
The Suzuki Repertoire:
Each book has a selection of pieces carefully chosen for students development of skills and concepts on the guitar. Teachers are trained how to teach these specific pieces through their teacher training. In addition to the training teachers have a ‘teacher part’ for all book 1 pieces so they can accompany the student in the lesson and further build listening skills. Since all students use the same book it is easy for students to play for other teachers as well as play along with fellow Suzuki students all over the world at festivals and conventions.
Group classes:
Student are expected to participate in weekly or bi weekly group classes. These classes reinforce skills learned in the lessons as well as introduce new skills in music. The students are asked to demonstrate and apply these skills in group activities with other students. From this the students learn how to play music with others thus creating a community in music and a platform for the child to grow with music.
Classical Guitar technique:
Students are learning music through classical guitar technique. The strings on a nylon guitar are easier to play for children because they are sensitive to touch and are easier to press down. The playing technique for classical guitar is much easier to ensure constancy in posture. As a result a good tone is much more consistent and becomes effortless as the child becomes more confident, relaxed and comfortable when playing the guitar due to the proper technique.