Suzuki Resources

WCM Suzuki Group Class & Lesson Information

Weekly Calendar

SUZUKI GROUP CLASS SCHEDULE – SPRING 2024

Group Class Attendance Policy

Regular attendance is important to the cohesiveness and development of the
classroom dynamic. Students are expected to attend only the group class section for which they are registered. In order to perform semester concerts and outreach events, students are allowed two excused absences per semester. Absences in excess of that will be discussed with the family by department chairs.

Purpose of Group Class

-To develop musical flexibility while learning the skill of playing and performing with others

-To improve motivation by learning and cooperating with peers

-To instill cooperation and discipline in following a leader within an ensemble

-To reinforce and improve technique through review repertoire

(For more depth regarding the purpose of group classes, see Group Class Notes by Suzuki Teacher Trainer, Teri Einfeldt – WCM Parent Reading Link for Nov. 2019)

Private Lesson Length Suggestions

It is generally recommended that students plan on increasing lesson length for better pedagogical pacing and greater depth of instruction as students reach the following levels:

Late Book 1+ – 45 minute lessons

Books 3 or 4+ – 60 minute lessons

WCM Suzuki Policies

Parent-Student Expectations

One of the most unique and important hallmarks of Suzuki method instruction is the strong Suzuki Triangle, the relationship between Student, Teacher, and Parent. To foster this bond and to empower the parent to be the Teacher’s Assistant at home, parents are expected to give group classes their full attention, to take notes as in the private lesson, and to participate/mirror activities with the teacher and students. Please refrain from using technology during group classes and private lessons. It ensures a distraction-free environment for teachers and students, and demonstrates to the child that they have their parent’s full attention for these important classes.

SPRING 2022 – PARENT EDUCATION SESSION

Attendance Policies

Regular attendance at scheduled times is expected. Instructors are not required to make up private lessons that a student has missed. Make ups are offered at the instructor’s discretion. Lessons missed on the account of the instructor will be made up. There are no makeups for group classes and ensembles.

WEATHER POLICY

Cancellations will be posted on all local news stations and wcmusic.org. Private lessons canceled for winter weather or acts of nature will be made up at a later date. Group classes and ensembles cancelled for inclement weather or acts of nature will not be made up.

Parent & Student Resources

november Parent Article

Group Class Notes, by Teri Einfeldt

As I travel around the country for workshops, it is apparent that one thing lacking in many programs is a disciplined atmosphere for learning within the group class. Perhaps we teachers do not clearly communicate our expectations for group class to parents. Here are some ideas about group lessons that I have shared with parents in our program.

FULL ARTICLE

Tips for Suzuki Parents

Check out these 15 helpful tips for Suzuki Parents.

VIEW PARENT TIPS

Parent’s equipment List

Here’s a helpful checklist for parents of Suzuki cello, violin, & viola students.

VIEW EQUIPMENT LIST