This year, I will continue working in charter school settings. It’s an honor to have opportunities to do such meaningful work.
I am grateful for these opportunities, but that does not stop my personal mission of creating a program in New York City.
Long Ago was when I began thinking about a charter school violin program, specifically. One that works. One that innovates. One that puts learning over profit.
So, I wanted to answer these questions to clear up a common misconception that the Suzuki Method cannot be added to a variety of curriculums.
Is it accessible for group classes? Say, in a charter school setting?
Yes!
The group class is the foundational component. This is where student musicians inspire and motivate each other. Everyone has the opportunity to shape the sound of a true musical ensemble together. Everyone learns core ensemble skills together. Everyone aims for excellent musicianship together. A sense of community is prioritized.
Is the expectation of mastery too high of an expectation?
No!
Any child can master the violin. A natural ability and an environment full of music are the ingredients for violin mastery. A skillful teacher can help children develop zero bad technical habits. All children have the ability to express a full ringing tone. The pieces in the Suzuki repertoire are designed to pace the skill development needed for mastery, starting from the absolute beginning. The repertoire has been analyzed and proven effective for decades.
Does it take enormous family support?
No.
What is needed is consistent practice at home. Reminders from parents to practice are nice, and adult guidance is needed for very young ages, but not necessary when there are students who have desires within themselves to learn. I hope to ignite this desire and passion for students so they become independent learners at home.
Does it value reading notes?
Yes!
In fact, there are so many professional musicians who started with Suzuki Method and they read notes for a living. Suzuki Method does not ignore the dots on the page. Reading notes is taught, but learning music naturally, by ear, is taught first. It is identical to native language learning. It is very effective to learn by listening to others first, while reading is taught along the way.
Are Suzuki teachers adaptive?
Yes. And the label of Suzuki teacher does not define our entire being. The method is simply an analytical tool we use that works. I know tons of Suzuki teachers who incorporate other method books and philosophies into their classrooms.
I am not just a Suzuki teacher. I am a collaborator.
For those wanting to know about this endeavor, lets talk. Reach out by emailing.
Balanceworldmusic@gmail.com
-J.S
