How to Participate: Violin and Viola Instruction

“All Children Can Learn”
—Shinichi Suzuki, Nurtured By Love

The individual lesson mixed with a weekly repertory group class is fundamental to the success of the Suzuki Method. Every student participates in both, on a weekly basis.

Individual Lessons

The individual lesson is at the heart of the Suzuki Method. Every student has their own weekly lesson, where progress is made at each individual child’s own pace. Listening to the Suzuki recordings regularly is fundamental to the child’s success. Parents participate in each lesson as an observer, quietly taking notes, then supporting daily home practices using your notes and lesson observations to help you be the “home practice coach.” Parents need not be musicians! Simply having the time to practice with your child, and a great desire to support the musical journey your child is on, is all that is needed! A Parent Class is offered during your first year to give the new “Suzuki Parent” lots of support and information.

Group Repertory Class

Group Class is a vital extension of the individual lesson. Here, children with a common repertoire, come together to learn to play in ensemble! In Group Class, students learn to lead and to follow, and to listen carefully to those with whom they are playing, in order to achieve cohesive musical details, phrasing, dynamics, and silence! Children learn how to be an essential part of a creative musical group. In Group Class, children also play Music Mind Games (musicmindgames.com) to develop foundational reading and theory skills, perform polished solos for peers, and prepare themselves for participation in regular public solo recitals and/or Outreach Concerts.

Recitals

There is a recital on the last Group Class of every semester. A scrumptious potluck dinner follows each recital: an opportunity to build connections and appreciation within the families.

Tuition and Fees

Individual Lessons and Repertory Group Class:
Tuition includes 15 Individual Lessons and 15 Group Classes

30 Minute Lesson/Group Class — $600
45 Minute Lesson/Group Class— $770
1 hour Lesson/Group Class — $900
Hourly Rate — $60

Early Childhood Class — $375 (maximum five students per class)
Baby Class — $200 per 15 week semester. This class is one hour long (
      Max 12 parent-child pairs per class)

For Adults: 30 minute lesson with no group class — $400

A semester is 15 weeks long. There are three semesters per year, making lessons available 45 weeks of the year.

Individual lessons are located at Catherine Whelan’s studio near Multnomah Village, and the Group Classes are held at the Multnomah Arts Center.

Photo: Multnomah Arts Center Auction: SuzukiPortland Ensemble performance, March 2007 (wide angle photo taken by Mikaela Vanderperren)

For more information contact Catherine Whelan
503.244.6190 Email catherine AT suzukiportland dot com

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