Suzuki Strings Program

COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL

About the Suzuki Method 

The Suzuki method of instruction is based on the philosophy and teaching of the late Japanese educator Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, in which young children learn to play the violin and cello the same way they learn to speak – by listening, imitating and repeating sounds.

The Suzuki method creates a partnership among teacher, parent and child. The parent attends lessons and group classes with the child, learns to play the instrument and becomes the “home teacher.”  Community Music School Suzuki students listen to the recorded repertoire, attend weekly private lessons, semi-monthly group classes and spend time reviewing and polishing skills along with new material.

Suzuki Workshop Weekend 

The Suzuki Workshop Weekend is an intensive, two-day workshop for Suzuki violin and cello students 4 years old and up that brings nationally recognized teachers and clinicians to the Community Music School.  The workshop involves small, medium, and large group classes, a guest recital, and a final group concert.  In addition, all students have the opportunity to learn from others through scheduled observation time.  Advanced violinists have special opportunities, including an optional master class with a visiting guest artist.  Fees for the biennial Suzuki Workshop Weekend are included in the Fall/Spring tuition.  The Community Music School will host the 2014 workshop in March. 

Suzuki Ensemble 

The Suzuki Ensemble is comprised of students who have advanced to the highest level of accomplishment in the Community Music School Suzuki String Program.  The Suzuki Ensemble has performed in Missouri, Illinois, Ohio and Wisconsin, and in 2006 toured and performed in Europe.  The ensemble has performed in elementary schools, retirement communities, on television, and at Powell Hall. 

How to Get Started:

1. Those seeking Suzuki instruction must contact the Community Music School to add their names to the orientation list. 
• Call:  (314) 968-5939
• Email: cms@webster.edu
2. Invitations to attend the parent orientation are mailed prior to Fall and Spring semesters. 
3. The required three-week parent orientation, for which a fee is charged, is held once or twice per academic year. 
4. Following completion of the parent orientation, children are scheduled to begin lessons.  Tuition for new students is pro-rated for only the weeks following orientation. 

Youngest Beginning Age of Students