The University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music Preparatory Suzuki program offers classes in this acclaimed musical learning system in piano, violin and viola, cello and flute and taught by trained Suzuki faculty.

Is Suzuki right for my child?

Suzuki study provides a fulfilling, enriching musical experience and an opportunity for parent and child to share a wonderful musical journey. The Suzuki philosophy, developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998), is based on how children learn to speak their native language. Suzuki’s ideas grew out of a friendship with Albert Einstein, who believed in music’s ability to create community among people of differing backgrounds. Instruction is based on the language model:  students learn through listening, rote learning, and repetition; beginning with small, manageable steps. Students learn to read music when they have attained basic instrumental skills.

The success of The Suzuki Method relies on the “Teaching Triangle” of respect among the teacher, student and parent.  Parental involvement, support, and encouragement enable young students to progress at their own pace with confidence.   Suzuki students often perform at professional levels, though Suzuki’s goal was not to create child prodigies. Suzuki believed that through music, one could nurture loving beings. You may want to review some introductory links to Suzuki history here and Suzuki's 10 Keys here.

The Suzuki faculty at the UC-CCM Preparatory Department have taken specialized training in The Suzuki Method and follow a curriculum created by the Suzuki Association of America. 

Children may begin Suzuki instruction as young as 4 years old. The CCM Prep program includes weekly individual lessons, group classes, ensemble playing, and performances within the community and at CCM. 

Before you start

In order to make the most of the program, however, families must make a commitment to the process. The following list outlines the beginning procedure and basic necessities for a continuing successful Suzuki experience:

• The parent or parents should read Nurtured by Love, by Shinichi Suzuki (Miami: Warner Brothers, ©1983. ISBN: 0-87487-584-6) to learn about the Suzuki philosophy and teaching approach. Parents are encouraged to discuss any questions with the teacher prior to beginning lessons.
• The parent or parents should observe some lessons and group classes. The teacher will invite you to specific lessons and classes. Please ask the teacher whether or not it is all right to bring your child (the potential student).

Once the decision has been made to begin lessons, the parent registers and pays through the CCM Preparatory Department. One parent (or adult representative) must commit to being the “Suzuki parent.” This parent will:

• attend and take notes at all lessons and group classes
• practice daily with the child at home
• facilitate the child’s participation in recitals.

Some teachers require parents to take several lessons by themselves first, before their children begin lessons. Even if the teacher does not require it, parents may request this option in order to feel comfortable helping the child at home right from the beginning.

Will these expectations fit into your family life?

Building the “Suzuki Triangle” requires constant reinforcement and parent involvement. Please make child care arrangements for siblings not taking lessons. Cell phones and other reading materials detract from parental involvement. Please turn off electronic devices, or notify the teacher if you are expecting the rare emergency phone call.

To relieve frustration and stress, avoid overscheduling your child. For school-age children, one additional activity is the recommended limit. Practice daily, and only what the teacher assigns. One parent only is designated the "Suzuki parent." Switching parents or sending a different person to the lessons is contrary to the Suzuki Philosophy.

This parent and child must commit to attending lessons, classes, and performances.  Each one serves a distinct purpose in the child’s development, reinforces concepts, and allows us to celebrate achievements.

Read the articles and books suggested by the teacher, attend parent talks to get help and new perspectives, and connect with other  Suzuki parents. Experienced Suzuki parents  provide a great resource for navigating the inevitable bumps along the way.

Frequently asked questions

My child has taken traditional music lessons. Is it possible to switch to Suzuki?

Some Suzuki instructors are willing to accept students who have already begun with traditional lessons, and others are not. Age 9 is considered an upper limit to do this.

Will my child learn to read music?

Yes, although at first students play by ear. Aural imitation is one of the foundational concepts of the Suzuki method.

What is the group class schedule?

It will be announced before the new term starts.

Will my child have the same teacher for private lessons and group classes?

Not always.

My child is 3. Can she start now?

It depends on the maturity level of the child. It may be possible if she can sit quietly for 30 minutes and be ready to receive instruction. Some very young children begin with 15-minute lessons.

What if I have to miss a lesson or group class?

Please notify the teacher at the earliest possible time if you will be unable to attend a private lesson or a group class. 

Links

The Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA)
http://suzukiassociation.org/

Suzuki Summer Institutes and Workshops
http://suzukiassociation.org/events/institutes/

To request more information about opportunities in Suzuki, please contact the Prep Office at 513-556-2595.

Summer Workshops

If you plan on going somewhere this summer, why not take a day or two out to play some music? Suzuki festivals are special because students get to work with different teachers and play with Suzuki kids from all over the country.

This is a website with all the institutes, and a map that shows where they are:

• http://suzukiassociation.org/events/institutes/

Here are some of these institutes:

• Louisville, Ky. http://suzukiassociation.org/events/loc/69/
• Falls Church, Va. (near Washington D.C.) http://suzukiassociation.org/events/loc/64/
  
• Ottawa, Kan. http://suzukiassociation.org/events/loc/49/
  
• Stevens Point, Wisc. http://suzukiassociation.org/events/loc/70/
  
• Blue Lake, Mich. http://suzukiassociation.org/events/loc/51/
  
• Ithaca College, NY http://suzukiassociation.org/events/loc/31/
  
• Columbus, OH http://suzukiassociation.org/events/loc/18/

There is also a Suzuki camp for young players in Cincinnati, very close to UC: http://www.suzukiproject.org/

Register now!