How the violin lessons work

Individual Lessons

All students will have individual lessons. Parents attend the lessons and take notes on the lesson points. At home the parent becomes the teacher.

Group Classes

In addition to individual lessons, all students will attend regular group classes; a highly motivating environment in which abilities are developed and friendships are nurtured.

Repertoire

The violin repertoire is contained initially in 10 published volumes. Pieces are sequenced to develop technical mastery, step by step. As each new piece is studied, all previously learned repertoire is continually developed to higher levels of sophistication, both technically and musically. All repertoire is memorised.
Beyond the 10 volumes, the learning continues with works from the standard violin repertoire, including major concerti, sonatas, studies and so on.

Music Reading

When the time is right, reading will be introduced. Just as a child will have reached a high level of language ability before learning to read, in Suzuki Method the learning of music reading is delayed until a certain level of playing skill has been reached. For this reason, Suzuki students will initially have a higher level of playing ability than their reading ability. Ultimately the reading ability accelerates, and as long as it is taught and practised diligently, Suzuki students will reach reading levels at least equal to their non Suzuki peers.

Concerts and workshops

All children will perform in a selection of solo recitals and group performances.
The wider Suzuki community has many workshop offerings, both interstate and overseas. These workshops are suitable for children of all levels, from beginners to advanced. There is an unlimited opportunity to expand the environment for making music.
In time, as this studio becomes established, there will be be workshops created locally, which will attract Suzuki students from Interstate and possibly overseas, as well as visiting faculty.

Orchestra

When students have reached an appropriate level of reading ability, they will be advised of opportunities to participate in community ensembles such as the Tasmanian Youth Orchestra and String Summer Camps. At the most advanced levels, students will have the opportunity to audition for National Music Camp and the Australian Youth Orchestra.

Parent education

Parents will be guided at every step. Initially parents will attend preparatory training, before the children begin their individual lessons. No previous experience is required. All parents have the potential to be wonderful educators of their children! From time to time there may be the opportunity to attend parent enrichment talks by visiting Suzuki teachers.

Instruments

Parents will be advised about acquiring suitable instruments for their children. Because of the importance of tone development in this Method, it is necessary to provide the children with fine quality instruments. This studio has access to beautiful violins at reasonable cost. It is best not to buy a violin before guidance on size and model is provided. Please note: I do not accept any commissions whatsoever for instruments that are purchased by my students.

The Violin Teacher & Suzuki Teacher Credentials

To be recognised as an accredited Suzuki teacher in Australia, a teacher will have completed an approved course of training and will be a financial member of the Suzuki Talent Education Association of Australia. Accredited teachers must also meet annual professional development requirements. As there is as yet no Suzuki Association in Tasmania, I will maintain my membership with Suzuki Music Victoria. For more information, see www.suzukimusic.org.au