Meghan Faw, violinist and educator
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7/5/2020 0 Comments

But I'm an adult! Is the suzuki method right for me?

Short answer:
Yes.

Long answer: 
If you’re asking this question, it’s probably because you have heard that the Suzuki method is geared towards young children. Yes, it’s true that Suzuki created the method with children in mind, but there is no reason why the same principles can’t be applied to adult violin learners. In my opinion, there are 2 concepts that set this method apart from any other violin method on the market.
Concept 1: The heavy emphasis on the development of the musical ear. 
The Suzuki method was born when Shinichi Suzuki realized that all Japanese children can speak Japanese! In other words, all children learn to speak their home language by developing their listening skills. It’s true that adults cannot learn a language as fast as children can-but what helps them learn as fast as possible? Immersion. If you were to suddenly move to a foreign country, you would pick up the language pretty fast! This is why listening to the Suzuki pieces is so important- especially for adults. Otherwise, how would you know a good tone from a bad tone? Or when you’re in tune vs. out of tune? Listening is vital for musical success at any age. Active listening is important, but passive listening is important, too. Put the CD on while you’re cooking dinner, paying bills, showering, etc...and it won’t even feel like work.
NOW, it’s important to note that this does not happen overnight. It takes time to be able to identify the minute differences between what’s ideal and what’s not. A baby does not just suddenly begin speaking in full sentences one day! No, they begin just by making sounds. Then incoherent babbles. Then maybe a word or two. Then eventually they will speak in sentences. Be patient and kind with yourself. 
Concept 2: The sequential order of pieces.
The Suzuki books are laid out so beautifully- each piece builds upon the next and new concepts are introduced in an optimal order for learning and success. HOWEVER, to the untrained eye, figuring out the teaching points of each piece is nearly impossible. This is why the Suzuki method is most likely not the best choice if you are self teaching. If you are learning through the Suzuki method, you need to be taking lessons from someone who is a Suzuki trained teacher. Many teachers use the Suzuki method but haven’t taken the courses, which ultimately just sets their students up for failure. Kinda like the blind leading the blind. 

If you’re even just a little bit curious about the method and if it could work for you, schedule a lesson with me. First one is always free ;)

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