Instrumental Lessons
Here at the Ridgefield Suzuki School, we are pleased to offer
private lessons for Violin, Viola, Cello, Flute and Piano!
Each student in our program will receive one weekly private lesson and one weekly group class. Private lessons are offered for either 30, 45 or 60 minutes depending on the child's age and experience level. Group classes are divided by current playing level.
Instrumental lessons are available for children ages 3.5 and up. To aid in their success, we highly recommend that young children enroll in one of our Early Childhood classes before beginning an instrument. If your child is younger than 4 years old and you feel the he/she is ready for formal music instruction, please contact the director.
A central component to the Suzuki method is community. In addition to the weekly group class, Ridgefield Suzuki School students perform in a variety of settings throughout the year. For more information, see our Events page.
What to Expect!
Including the ideals of Suzuki, below is what you can expect when you sign up for lessons.
Private Lessons
Each student will receive a 30, 45, or 60 minute private lesson depending on age and level. In the private lesson, the teacher teaches the student the fundamentals of playing their instrument as well as music theory in an engaging and developmentally appropriate manner.
The parent participates actively in all lessons, taking notes and engaging with the teacher forming what is known as The Suzuki Triangle - teacher, student, parent. Parents are given the tools with which to practice daily with their child and help their child achieve the goals the teacher has set forth.
Group Class
All students are required to attend a weekly group class. Students are placed in group classes along with other students who are at a similar level. In group class, the students play games to reinforce techniques, play and review current pieces, perform for each other, and work on ensemble skills. The group class provides the social element that is fundamental to music making allowing students to form bonds with other children.
Listening
Daily listening is a fundamental part of the Suzuki method. Children learn to speak by listening to the people around them and imitating what they hear. Children learn to play music in the same way. We would never expect a baby to learn to speak by reading the words on a page, so we must provide the same listening opportunities for music that children have for speech.
Daily Practice
Constant repetition is essential in learning to play an instrument. The teacher will give the parent many ideas in which to make practice a fun and enjoyable experience.
Performance
One of the most fun and motivating aspects of playing an instrument is performing. Many performance opportunities are given to students ranging from casual get-togethers with friends to formal concerts and recitals.
For more information on the Suzuki Method please click here.