Suzuki Program

A comprehensive program of study based on the philosophy of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki: that all children are born with a high potential for learning, and given the opportunity and a structured, encouraging environment, any child can learn to play an instrument. Students in the Suzuki program learn to make music using the “mother-tongue” approach, in the same way they learn to speak, by listening and imitating.

The teacher and parent have equally important roles in the success of each child's experience with the Suzuki method. By attending all lessons, supervising daily listening, and practicing with the student, the parent is an active participant in the learning process. The teacher, student, and parent form an all-important "triangle" of learning to support the child's musical growth. Hochstein's Suzuki Program provides many opportunities for public performance, both at Hochstein and at fun community venues such as our Performathon at Eastview Mall and the annual Barnes & Noble Bookfair.

Suzuki Violin, Viola, and Cello
Elana Herman, Klansee Reynolds & Zachary Sweet, and Micah Woods, Instructors
age 3+
The Suzuki String program includes instrumental study of violin, viola, and cello with teachers who have been specially trained in the Suzuki Method. Individual lessons are taught in 30, 45, and 60 minute sessions and are supplemented by a weekly, 50-minute group class. New Suzuki students and parents learn ways to reinforce instruction at home by participating in Suzuki Strings 101, (description below). Hochstein welcomes and encourages parents of prospective students to observe lessons and group classes before enrolling in the program. Please call (585) 396-3778 to request a detailed Suzuki Brochure and an observation schedule.

FEE: $20 registration fee; $29* fee per lesson (includes the group class). With enrollment in Suzuki Strings, families pay $45 per quarter for one Music FUNdamentals or Children’s Dance class.

Suzuki Parent Education
Because parents play such a vital role in the process of learning through the Suzuki method, Hochstein provides guidance and support through periodic parent education classes throughout the school year. Suzuki parent education is a requirement of the program, and is included in the general Suzuki fees.

Suzuki Strings Group Classes for Community Participants
ages 4-9
Permission of community teacher required
Is your child studying with a Finger Lakes-area Suzuki teacher who doesn’t offer a supplemental group class? If so, come join Hochstein’s Suzuki Group Classes! Students join together for a weekly, 50-minute class where they experience the joy of playing together and for one another while enjoying the benefits of the social aspect of music as they work together on the common body of music in the Suzuki repertoire.
Book 1: Wednesdays, 5:00-5:50 pm
Book 2: Saturdays, 9:30-10:20 am

FEE: $8 registration fee; $288* yearly tuition, payable in quarterly installments of $72.

Suzuki Flute
Elizabeth Shuhan, Instructor
age 7+

Adapted by Toshio Takahashi, the Suzuki method for flute builds success with listening, using a progressive repertoire, teacher encouragement, and parental involvement. The program advances sequentially while it develops the student's tone and technique. Students of small stature (less than 54 inches tall) may be advised to begin with the curved flute headjoint option.

With parents as partners, young children begin flute study in a small group class or private lesson that meets once a week. In the first weeks of class, parents learn the philosophy behind the Suzuki method and learn to play the beginning pieces. This prepares them for working at home with the children in a supportive manner. Students receive a 30-minute private lesson each week and one group lesson per month.

FEE: $20 registration fee; $26* fee per lesson. Additional $18 quarterly fee forSuzuki FLute Ensemble scheduled once per month on Mondays from 4:30-5:20 pm throughout the academic year. With enrollment in Suzuki Flute, families pay $45 per quarter for one Children’s Dance class

*Reduced fees are available on a sliding scale, based on household income. We will be happy to discuss your child's musical education. Please call (585) 454-4596.