Suzuki violin method

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What is so great about the Suzuki violin method? Read on.

Now some of you might think that Suzuki means a car. But if you are passionate about violins, then you will be interested to hear about Schinchi Suzuki and the Suzuki violin method.

He came up with the clever idea of teaching violin a bit differently. He noticed the amazing capacity of young children to learn and began teaching them violin and musicianship. He believed that children should be taught in the way which most suited them - using the mother tongue approach. Now that is enlightened isn't it?

He also was passionate about helping children develop concentration and an appreciation of beauty and art.

Suzuki's autobiography

So What is different about the Suzuki violin method?

The Suzuki violin method gathered momentum after the second world war and reached almost mythical status among some music teachers. But like any other method, you still need to practice and to have the right teacher for you!

He did away with the need to read music form day one. He went back to first principlesand encouraged children to express themselves musically as they do when they learn to talk. Byencouraging them to listen and then to try it. Children learn to speak without learningto read first - same with music.

His method means that children need to listen to particular pieces every day - he stresses this isindispenable - no shortcuts allowed!

He also taught in groups - so children would play together twice a month. As many f us owuld agreeit always fun to play with others and can imporve and stretch your playing.

The suzuki violin method also uses repetition to build up children's memory of musical patterns.

And Suzuki wanted to encourage a beautiful tone.

Because he didn't bother with reading music in the early stages, children could concentrate on tone and enjoying playing with others. The upshot is that they made rapid progress.

He also - wait for it - made the mothers learn too! So all you parents out there - no excuses!!

There are lots of books available on the Suzuki violin method and you can buy the recordings.

There are Suzuki violin method teachers all over and if you are interested in this method you should be able to find a good one.

Oh and his method has been expanded to other instruments like viola, cello, string ensemble, piano and flute.

One final thought, although the Suzuki violin method grew from about 1945, I would just add that much folk music is learnt through the aural tradition with generations passing down song and tunes.

So maybe the old timers were onto something well ahead of Suzuki. OK I know its not quite so methodical - but there are lots of great folk players who have learnt by ear.

That's the carrying stream.

If you are interested in reading more about the Suzuki violin method try some of the following titles.

Feed your passion.

A variety of resources for the wonderful Suzuki method!!

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