The Suzuki Method functions through the basic idea that our
abilities are not necessarily inborn. In fact, according to Shinichi Suzuki (1898-1998) talent can be
created. Suzuki believed that all children possess abilities that can be nurtured and developed —
particularly in the realm of musical skills.
Suzuki’s idea began with an observation that all Japanese children living in Japan knew how to speak the
language. With the knowledge that beginning from infancy, all children learn to speak their own language with
relative ease, often without the aid of formal education, Suzuki surmised that these same natural learning
processes could be applied as a teaching method for other skills so that children can acquire more skills
with a higher rate of success.
Some important elements of the Suzuki approach to instrumental teaching include starting the teaching process
between the ages of 3 to 4 years old. The importance of listening to music and learning to play before
learning to read, as well as a core repertoire, used by Suzuki students all over the world, are some of the
key elements of the process.
Christy Hodder, a teacher at King’s-Edgehill School in Windsor,
N.S., is familiar with the Suzuki method. Much like other private schools in the country, King’s-Edgehill
School maintains a high standard of learning. However, in addition to their focus on academic excellence, the
King’s-Edgehill School also provides students with an advanced music program that includes both vocal and
instrumental training.
There is a new Suzuki Ensemble growing in Nova Scotia, and students at King’s-Edgehill have been active
participants. What’s more, children of varying ages are all benefiting from this method, as well as the
ensemble — including children as young as little Aynslie Symons, who at only 22 months old is “already a
great violin player,” says Hodder.
Symons is a great example of what children can accomplish, even at such a young age. Older students at
the school have also benefited from the method — even outside of their musical education. "It really helps me
with my school studies to be able to play the violin", says NaEun Park, a Grade 10 student at the school, and
part of the Nova Scotia Suzuki String Ensemble. The ensemble is no stranger to accomplishments: Recently,
they captured top honours at the Annapolis Valley Music Festival.
According to Hodder, the “Suzuki method of music is truly international, and considers music as one would a
language — even at a very young age.” Even the students agree. "I get so much confidence playing in a group
like this," says Park. "I am playing the same music that I played in my Suzuki lessons in Korea when I
started at 5 years old. Playing the violin helps relax me and makes me feel more creative and
energetic."
The large and impressive sound of the King's-Edgehill School and the N.S. Suzuki Ensemble enhanced the
Maritime music added to their traditional Suzuki repertoire, making them "Stars of the Festival".•
Photos courtesy of
King's-Edgehill School
