About

A lesson is a one-on-one session studying a specific instrument with an expert of that instrument. Our faculty are highly trained as musicians and usually have chosen one instrument as their primary focus. Lessons can be 30, 45, or 60 minutes in length, and are scheduled once per week.

Classes are group experiences in which students of a similar age are combined to study a specific music topic. Classes offered are: Suzuki Early Childhood Education (SECE), Music Discovery, First Steps, Voice Class, Rhythm Workshop, Songwriting, Music Theory. In the summer, we often offer other specialty classes.

We recommend parents start bringing a child to concerts, especially concerts or recitals at a music school where they will see performances by peers as well as faculty. Often a child will develop an affinity for an instrument. They might say, “I love the cello!”

If a child doesn’t show an attachment, we recommend starting with piano lessons. It’s a great way to learn rhythm and how to read music. Playing the piano is also the perfect springboard to any other instrument.

If there is no piano at home, a children’s choir or SJSM’s First Steps class (K and 1st grade) or Voice Class (ages 7, 8, 9) is another great way to go. It’s motivating because your child will be with other kids, and they will develop reading and sight-singing skills. From there, we help you and your child choose your instrument.

The biggest difference that parents should know in the beginning is that the Suzuki program is going to involve them to a greater degree than traditional lessons. The centerpiece of the approach is the triangle that forms between parent, child and teacher. The parent attends all the lessons, takes notes and then becomes the child’s teacher at home. At the same time, the child should be listening to the Suzuki repertoire on recordings at home, picking up a vocabulary of sounds, like a language. A group lesson is required in addition to a weekly private lesson.

If your family identifies with any of the following, then consider traditional lessons instead:

• my student is over the age of 9.
  
• my student already reads music.
  
• my child is very independent. I can support my student in carving out practice time, but as a parent I do not have time to practice with my student and attend lessons twice a week.
  

We are happy to discuss the different options with you, and encourage you to call to set up an informational meeting.

For older students, a great motivator is the deadline for a performance. It gives them a goal to work toward. It also works well to give students of any age a challenge. For example, challenge a child to practice for 25 days in a row. Keep a chart on the refrigerator and incorporate some kind of reward. Kids take pride in what they can accomplish.