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The Suzuki Philosophy
Dr. Shinichi Suzuki
Initiated by Dr. Sinichi Suzuki in Japan following World War II, the Suzuki teaching philosophy is based on the mother tongue approach. Having observed that children learn to speak their language at an early age through listening and imitation, Dr. Suzuki concluded that all children could learn to play a musical instrument in the same way: listening to the music to be learned and repetition of the same. Once the student has acquired technical mastery of the instrument, music reading and interpretation can be introduced and easily incorporated.
Just as in architecture, the shape of the triangle is the most stable, the same is true for achievement in a Suzuki program. Fundamental to success is a stable three-part relationship of parent, student, and teacher. The primary role of parent as home teacher is most critical, as the teacher spends only a short period of time with the student. The teacher must encourage, correct, and give specific directions so that the parent can “teach” at home. Honest communication between parent and teacher is absolutely necessary to maintain consistent home practice.
Developing a Suzuki student is similar to constructing the foundation of a house. Each stone is carefully laid and secured before the next one is placed on top. Strength of the basic layer must be maintained to insure the stability of the entire building. Consequently, each step in mastering an instrument must be attained before proceeding to subsequent steps so that the student will have a sense of confidence in technical ability as he or she progresses into more difficult pieces. Parents must have patience and allow student time to absorb and perfect new skills without pressure to continuously learn new repertoire.
-wikepedia
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