In the Suzuki Method, parents attend lessons with the child and serve as “home teachers” during the week. The role of the Suzuki "home teacher" naturally complements the role of the homeschooling parent because parental involvement is integral to the success of the method. Previous musical knowledge from the parent is not at all required because the teacher ensures that parents understand all unfamiliar technical and musical concepts. 

 

The environment, rather than genetic background, will determine the success or failure of the student. Homeschooling parents are already familiar with the task of creating a space for learning at home and they have the opportunity to work with their music teacher toward this end as well. Homeschooling families in our program frequently tell us that the insights they gain from their child's Suzuki lessons are relevant and helpful to their home curriculum.

 

The purpose of music instruction is not to create professional musicians, but to develop the whole child through the study of music. Dr. Suzuki’s goal was not simply to develop professional musicians, but to nurture loving human beings and help develop each child’s character through the study of music.​ Our faculty also think of music as a means of teaching children skills like the ability to focus one's attention, time management, goal-setting, the satisfaction of hard work (and accompanying success), teamwork, and self-assessment. These are valuable skills for all children, homeschooled or otherwise!

 

Group classes are designed to allow children to share their music with others, while we reinforce important skills introduced at the private lesson. The group experience teaches children how to play together and the social benefits are a tremendous aid in the motivation to practice at home.​​ Group class also nurtures a sense of community among families as they get to know eachother over the years they are in the program. Over the course of the school year, group classes also give local performances so children learn the value of doing something for their community and the joy of performing for an audience!

 

 

“Playing music is the brain’s equivalent of a full-body workout.”

Doctor Anita Collins, neuroscientist and music educator, created an engaging and informative video about how music effects and exercises the brain, particularly the activity of playing a musical instrument. See it for yourself!