Frequently Asked Questions
Lisa playing when she was five years old.
Question: Are Suzuki children musical prodigies?
Answer: Fortunately, Suzuki violin students are normal children whose parents may have little or no musical experience. Their parents have simply chosen to introduce them to music through the Suzuki approach.
Question: How young can my child and I start Suzuki violin lessons?
Answer: The average starting age of a Suzuki violin student is between 3 and 6 years old. However, it is never too late to start. The earlier students begin, the more the violin becomes a part of their lives.
Question: Do parents stay for the lessons?
Answer: Yes. Participation from the parent is critical in the development of the child's musical ability. Parents attend lessons, take notes for the child, and guide practicing at home each day. Parents find bonding with their children at home through music as one of the most enjoyable aspects of Suzuki violin!
Question: I am not sure if my child is ready for Suzuki lessons. Can I meet for a trial lesson?
Answer: Lisa offers a 30-minute trial lesson for students and parents who are interested in Suzuki violin lessons. Lisa will answer any individual questions you have as well as introduce your child to music and the Suzuki violin method. You will not need any materials for the trial lesson. Email Lisa today to schedule your lesson!
Question: Will my child have any performance opportunities?
Answer: Yes! Lisa holds a yearly recital each spring and additional community performances throughout the year. Group lessons are also great "mini-performances" in order to prepare for concerts and recitals.
Question: How much time is involved in the Suzuki program?
Answer: Beginning students start with one 20-minute individual lesson per week and approximately six group lessons per semester. Initially, practice time at home will be no longer than 10 minutes per day, and you will generally add 5-10 minutes for each year your child has studied. Private lessons will increase to 30 minutes when your child gets older as well.
Question: What supplies will I need to have for my child's lessons?
Answer: For the first few weeks, your child will be playing on a homemade violin (see photo gallery) in order to develop posture, rhythm, and technique, so you will not need to purchase an instrument. When your child is ready, Lisa will guide you through the process of renting or buying an instrument. You will only need the Suzuki Violin School Volume 1 book and CD set. After approximately a year of playing, your child will also begin using Lisa's supplemental book and CD set called "Fiddlin' Favorites."
Question: Where will my child and I go for lessons?
Answer: Both private and group lessons occur at Lisa's home in Greenville near the hospital.
Question: Will my child learn how to read music?
Answer: Yes! Lisa incorporates music reading into weekly lessons when a student is ready. Children learn to read words after their ability to talk has been well established. In the same way, children will establish musical technique and ability before being taught to read music. Different children begin reading music at different times, and Lisa will determine when the time is right for your child.
Question: When is a good time to listen to the Suzuki music?
Answer: The music that your child will be learning should be played constantly as part of your daily routine. You can play the music during car rides, while eating meals, and when your child is waking up or going to sleep. The Suzuki approach encourages "wallpaper listening," which means children do not need to be silent when listening. Playing the music during conversations and activities is still highly productive.
