Did you know that Ivy League offers a Suzuki Violin program to students ages 4 and up? When I first heard about it I was skeptical. How can a little child, just learning to read and write, play a musical instrument, especially a violin? The Suzuki program proved me wrong.
My daughter started when she was four years old, under the tutelage of Linda Kaplan, and has been playing for the last two years. I have noticed a continuous improvement in her playing and in the confidence she exudes when playing. She is comfortable on stage and offers to play in front of friends and family when they visit.
She is a proud of her musical accomplishments. She has also developed a musical ear that has carried over into other parts of her life. Identifying instruments in a song, writing and singing songs with her best friend, and connecting to music in a personal way by talking about how songs make her feel. If you have any doubts about your child’s ability to play the violin put them aside. If you make a commitment to support, encourage, and become involved they will succeed.
About the Suzuki Method: Dr. Shinichi Suzuki (son of a Japanese violin-maker) founded the system of Talent Education in Japan in the 1930’s. During his travels, Suzuki noted that children all over the world were able to learn to speak by listening then imitating. He applied the same principles to the learning of music:
- daily listening followed by imitation
- constant repetition – Children learn a piece of music and add it to their music vocabulary, building on it and using it in more sophisticated ways.
- praise and encouragement done in a positive learning environment (studio, home, or school).
- students do not learn how to read music until they have developed a basic technical competence on their instruments.
Parent Tips:
- You don’t have to play an instrument or know how to read music to help your child succeed.
- The early stages learning require more involvement during school practices. For the pre-school age students, it is recommended that you try to attend, however it is not required.
- Encourage your child to practice daily. You can decide on the length of time that works best for your child.
- Listen to the Suzuki CD as often as possible. Pop it in during long drives or put it on while your child is playing. Listening to the Suzuki CD will help reinforce learning.
- Be patient – each child develops at their own pace.
- Make it fun – get excited about the music your child is playing. It’s contagious.
The Suzuki method embodies a very specific approach to talent education. One that believes a child’s potential is shaped and formed by their environment. Given the right environment a child can learn how to play the violin, beautifully.
Start your child’s musical journey today. To find out more about the Suzuki Program at Ivy League and Private Suzuki Lessons with Cheryl Kafrissen contact: Linda Kaplan at 631-265-4177. Cheryl Kafrissen, is a classically trained violinist and specializes in teaching children at Ivy League using the Suzuki Method. To learn more about Shinichi Suzuki and the Suzuki Method visit The Suzuki Association of America.
Written by Lorraine Nuzzo