The Suzuki Method

The Theodosis Violin Studio meets each student where they are at in their learning and development. Younger students learn using the Suzuki Method (see below). Older children learn using a hybrid approach of the Suzuki Method and more traditional ways of learning the violin. Advanced students can expect pre-conservatory style lessons that will progress them through advanced violin repertoire to gain skills and develop their artistry, as well as local youth symphony auditions, and eventually college auditions. 

Parents are their children's first and most important teacher! During the early years of a child's musical instruction one parent will bring their child to lessons, take notes on assignments, and help their child practice at home. No previous music experience is necessary. 

Dr. Suzuki called his approach the Mother Tongue Method. Just as children learn to speak their native language and then learn to read books, so will a young child learn to play music. Daily listening to the Suzuki recording is a must to learn violin. Notereading is taught once a child has learned the basics of the instrument and has also learned to read books. 

While private lessons are where most new technique and pieces are learned, group lessons are of equal importance. Children are motivated to learn when they get to learn aside other children and make music together. Group lessons are held weekly throughout the school year.

The early years are crucial for developing mental processes and muscle coordination. Formal music training can begin by 4 years old. Younger children are encouraged to attend music classes such as Music Together or Kindermusik.  

Constant repetition is essential in learning to play an instrument. Children do not learn a word or piece of music and then discard it. They add it to their vocabulary or repertoire, gradually using it in new and more sophisticated ways.

How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time! In all seriousness, learning to play an instrument can feel like eating an elephant! Children learn through small steps in order to never get overwhelmed with the complexities of learning the violin. 

There are two ways to look at things - through the negative (what is going poorly) and through the positive (what is going well). The Suzuki approach is always to look at what the child is doing well and to celebrate it, and to positively work on a student's weak areas.