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, 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.

 

Suzuki Strings

Joan Kinsella, Suzuki Program Coordinator

violin, viola, cello

age 3 and older

The Suzuki Strings 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) 454-4596 to request a detailed Suzuki Brochure and a copy of the group class schedule.

 

Fee: $20 registration fee; $29* fee per lesson (includes the group class). Schedules and fees are arranged by appointment with the Dean’s Office. With enrollment in Suzuki Strings, families pay $45 per quarter for one Music FUNdamentals or Children’s Dance class, and reduced fees for Choir or other ensembles.

 

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 101

for beginning violin, viola, and cello students and their parents

Fridays, 5:30-6:20 pm or

Saturdays, 9:00-9:50 am

6 weeks, September 16-October 22 (and subsequent sessions beginning each quarter)

 

Children and their parents learn ways to integrate the instrument-learning process into family life with an emphasis on the Suzuki philosophy, instrument care, and understanding and internalizing the "Twinkle" rhythms through a variety of musical games and movements. Students and parents in Suzuki Strings 101 transition to Pre-twinkle classes beginning October 29 and 30. Parents of students ages 3-5 need a full-size instrument for at least the first 6 weeks of individual lessons to assist in learning the basic techniques, while students begin on a “box” instrument.

 

Suzuki Strings Group Classes for Community Participants

Permission of community teacher required

age 3 and older

Is your child studying with a Rochester-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. Classes are specific to age and Suzuki book level, and students enjoy the benefits of the social aspect of music while they work together on the common body of musical works in the Suzuki repertoire. Group classes are offered on Tuesday evenings, Friday evenings, and Saturday mornings. Please call (585) 454-4596 for a copy of the group class schedule.

 

Fee: $10 registration fee; $324* yearly tuition, payable in quarterly installments of $81.

 

Suzuki Flute

Sally Ann Hart, Instructor

age 7 and older

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.

 

Fee: $20 registration fee; $26* fee per lesson, plus an additional annual fee of $30 for group class. A minimum of 8 group class meetings will be scheduled throughout the year. Schedules and fees are arranged by appointment with the Dean’s Office. With enrollment in Suzuki Flute, families pay $45 per quarter for one Music FUNdamentals or Children’s Dance class, and reduced fees for Choir or other ensembles.

 

*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.