Traditional Teaching with Suzuki Training:  Having a traditional violin training background, I've always taught with traditional methods.  While I respected Suzuki students ability to play by ear and memorize, I have been concerned that the approach made reading music difficult.  When I decided to begin learning more about their methods by attending the Suzuki Institute this summer, I was astounded at the level of skill and musicality exhibited by very young children.  I learned that playing an instrument at a young age is akin to learning a language as a young person.  Music, like language, can become a "mother tongue".  By focusing on rhythms, patterns, listening and memorizing, the students were able to play musically, rather than focused "in their music".   I continue to feel reading music well is essential in the long run and am committed to teaching it, but I recognize the great value of focusing on the other elements first - much as a child doesn't begin by reading, but by watching, listening and mimicking others as he or she develops language skills.   

Parental Support:  I have several students whose parents come to the lesson each week.  I notice a big difference as they support their child's practice in positive ways in the home.  Celebrating progress gives the child encouragement.  

Lifetime benefits:  Helping a child learn a new skill and continue to work on it until it is done well sets a strong foundation for learning and improving in all aspects of their lives.  Learning to make beautiful music has taught me patience, hard work, listening skills, cooperative playing, and the joy of accomplishment, and I see the same in my students.  Giving a child the gift of music is a gift that can shape him or her for a lifetime.

Group Classes:  New this year will be the addition of two group classes each month.  Time has shown that students who perform with other students are more motivated, and stick with the instrument far longer than students who simply play alone with an occasional recital.  I look forward to enjoying the games and activities that best lend themselves to group classes, which are not only fun, but add learning not possible in the 30- minute lesson.  For this reason, the cost for the group lesson is built into the weekly lesson.  Space is limited to a maximum of six students.