Suzuki Instruction

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Michele Higa George, Suzuki Program Director

Blake Brasch, Program Administrator

MIC’s Barston Suzuki Center offers one of the largest and most comprehensive Suzuki programs in the Midwest. Trained Suzuki faculty provide the highest quality private and group-class instruction. Suzuki instruction is available for piano, violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, guitar, harp, and recorder. The internationally recognized Suzuki method is based on the philosophy of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki that talent and musicianship can be developed in any child. Numerous class and solo performance opportunities are offered throughout the year.

Program Overview

• Students ages three and above may be enrolled in the Suzuki Program.

• The parent is actively involved in all aspects of the child’s musical development, attends all lessons and classes, and receives training to be the home teacher.

• Parents of beginning students will receive orientation and a parent handbook.

• No prior musical experience is necessary.

• The tuition includes a private lesson, as well as one or more group classes including: Suzuki repertoire classes, Musikgarten® classes (materials fee not included), music reading classes, and participation in musicianship classes and activities (when appropriate; $35 materials fee not included). Additionally, students may participate in monthly Suzuki Sunday performances and in graduation recitals and group festival concerts each May.

The Music Institute of Chicago offers a comprehensive program of study based on the philosophy of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. The Suzuki Program features instrumental study with qualified, well-trained teachers who are members of the Suzuki Association of the Americas.

Orientation and Observation:

Prospective families are encouraged to observe lessons or classes at the Music Institute prior to enrolling in the Suzuki Program. We strongly suggest that parents read Nurtured by Love by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki to understand the fundamentals of Suzuki philosophy before making a commitment to the program. New families will have an opportunity to attend orientation sessions throughout the academic year.

Private Lessons:

Lessons are available in lengths of 30, 45 and 60 minutes.

Group Lessons and Recitals:

Suzuki students attend group repertory lessons taught by members of the Suzuki faculty. In addition, there are Suzuki recitals for all students on a Sunday each month plus graduation and festival concerts in the spring.

Developmental Note-reading Program:

The developmental note-reading program at the Music Institute is designed to ensure that the student learns to read music successfully. At early repertoire levels or at pre-school age levels, a pre-musicianship class is available. Later, in music reading classes, students learn and master a step-by-step progression of note-reading skills. As the child progresses, reading techniques are used in mixed groups where the children play their instruments in elementary ensembles.

2012 Suzuki Samplers (8 week sessions)