Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I know if Suzuki is right for my child?
The Suzuki Method Is right for every child! It is a highly individualized method which takes into account the childs developmental level at every step of the way. I have taught children who were blind; ADD and ADHD students; students with Downs Syndrome; and a child with schizophrenia. All students progress. Some progress more quickly and easily than others, but all students progress. Whether the Suzuki Method is right for every family, however, is a different matter. There is no question but that it requires a great deal of commitment from the parent. Mom or Dad attends all lessons and groups, and practices with the child at home. (To tell a 4-year-old to go home and practice by himself is futile.) The parent needs to be creative, coming up with ways to make practice an enjoyable experience for both herself and her child. And, Suzuki is a long-term commitment, not a 6-week quick course. Inevitably, there will be valleys in the learning process, as well as peaks. It is up to the parent to remember, in the midst of a valley, that there will be a peak, and keep on going. You never want to give up on a child. It is apparent that Suzuki teaches a lot of things other than music: the ability to stick out the rough spots; the self-confidence that comes from meeting and surmounting difficulties; the joy of self-expression. Suzuki children grow into good adults.
Why not wait until age 9 or 10, when the public schools begin instruction?
Because the pre-school years are a time when brain pathways are being laid down for life. We all know how difficult it is for adults to learn a foreign language. Music is also a language, and delaying instruction only limits potential. A child who begins lessons at 3 may be at the same playing level, at age 6, as a child who began at age 5. The difference will be that the younger beginner will have such an intimate connection with the instrument that later, as a young adult, he will not be able to imagine his life without it.
What size violin is right for my child?
Let the teacher decide! Bigger violins sound better, but violins that are too big strain muscles and encourage the development of bad habits. The teacher can suggest an appropriate price range, and places to shop. There may also be families selling instruments that no longer fit their children.
Will my child be glad I made the decision to start lessons?
Some days, yes; some days, no. Do you ask your child to be glad you provide him with healthy food? Do you expect your teen-ager to appreciate all house rules? As adults, we make all kinds of decisions for our children, based on what we consider to be the child's best interest. Then, you consistently and cheerfully follow through. The more cheerful the parent, the happier the child.