Suzuki FAQs
How are Suzuki guitar lessons different from traditional lessons?
There are many characteristics of Suzuki instruction that make it different from traditional lessons, to name a few:
- Teachers trained and by the Suzuki association have been through a selective process and have undergone extensive training.
- Instruction is started at a young age in a nurturing, age appropriate way that centers on listening to the repertoire as a teaching tool; introducing musical and technical concepts in a playful way; including the parents in the lesson; and holding a group class to foster the sense of teamwork.
- Music reading is delayed until the student can already play well.
Do I have to go to group class?
Group class is absolutely essential to your child’s education and Evergreen Academy’s Suzuki Guitar curriculum. Skipping that part of the instruction would be analogous to going to soccer practice without ever participating in the matches. Playing in the group helps inspire students musically, create a sense of teamwork, and is fun!
I’m afraid to buy an expensive instrument for my child in case he loses interest. Can I get something inexpensive now and let him graduate to a better one when he improves?
I do not advocate this practice simply because often inexpensive instruments can actually be very frustrating to play. The guitar is in a unique position in that there are many “toy” type instruments available in stores that are very inexpensive compared to real instruments suitable for musical study. (One doesn’t find toy cellos in a department store, for instance.) To build a positive experience with lessons and the study of music, it is best to set your child up in the best possible circumstance for success.
My child refuses to practice!
It is very common that children resist practice at times. It is our (the parent and teacher’s) job as adults to create an environment where time with the instrument is a rewarding part of the child’s routine. I have many techniques and games that kids love to play as well as other parent resources to assist in making practice time fun.
I’ve heard that Suzuki students don’t read music!
This is a common misconception about the Suzuki method. It is true that learning to read music is delayed under the Suzuki method, but this is in order to ensure that the child first develops proper positioning as well as the ability to play a few songs fluently. Once that goal has been achieved, reading music is introduced as in any other method--except that the child will have the advantage of already knowing how to navigate the instrument itself. It is the same sequence that happens naturally when children develop language skills: just as children learn how to speak before they learn how to read.
To get a better idea of Suzuki philosophy, please visit Suzuki Association