Suzuki Violin Programme

Students learn and practice specific skills and music during private lessons, and then use that knowledge to study ensemble skills and music theory during group lessons; concurrent enrolment in both private and group lessons is required.

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course structure

17 private lessons

Through private lessons, students build a strong foundation of skills for playing the violin. Lessons emphasis and support the development of a beautiful tone, healthy technique, and daily practice routine. Parents receive hands-on instruction and support for helping their child throughout the learning process.

9 violin group lessons

At our bi-weekly group classes, students become part of a larger musical community where they can learn from and encourage each other. A core component of the Suzuki model, group classes focus on developing ensemble skills, deepening musicality and reviewing repertoire. Students also have a chance to perform solos for each other in a friendly and supportive environment. Finally, part of each class is devoted to learning theory/note reading, aural skills, and music history.

strings orchestra rehearsals

Students will be introduced to Suzuki chamber music, where they will learn how to perform in and accompany small ensembles. They will learn about tuning, music theory, aural skills and music history that applies to the repertoire. They will also have the opportunity to perform with Seed's world-class faculty members.

Orchestra repertoire will be based on Suzuki String Quartets for Beginning Ensembles, Volume 1, which have been arranged for string quartet by violinist/arranger Joseph Knaus. With lower string parts providing melodic and rhythmic counterpoint to set off the simple melodies (which match the Suzuki Method® repertoire), these quartets are nevertheless simple enough for beginning level players ready for their first chamber music experience.

recital & performances

There will be performance opportunities at the end of each semester, in which all students will present at least one movement of a chamber music work. Students also have opportunities each semester to perform a solo, as well as ensemble performances out in the community.

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Suzuki violin method at a glance:

skill progression through the levels

The Suzuki Violin curriculum is broken up into ten books. At the end of each book, students will have acquired the following skills:

Pre-Book 1

safe handling of the violin, rest and play position, bow hold, playing simple songs, aural recognition of several book 1 songs 

Book 1

Foundational playing skills: student can play 17 songs of increasing complexity from memory; plays all notes on all four strings (first position); knows many musical terms, forms, bow strokes and bowing patterns; has begun to read music. 

Book 2

Student can play longer-from songs that traverse different keys; can play in several major and minor keys; can execute increasingly complex bowings and bow strokes 

Book 3

Student has a deepened musical understanding and sensitivity. Has begun learning advanced techniques such as shifting, vibrato and double stops. 

Book 4

Student has learned several concerto movements requiring advanced skills like shifting, double stops, fast playing, and off-the-string bow strokes. 

Book 5 and up

Student continues development of advanced technique; can play in multiple styles, has facility through several positions, and is learning essential pieces of the violin repertoire. 

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