1) How old do you start kids?
We prefer to start children between 4 – 7 years of age. Children may start at an older age under special circumstances.
2) What is included in the quarterly tuition?
Tuition covers one private lesson per week, and 6 group lessons. Group lessons include ensemble playing and theory. (Current or most recent group lesson schedule also listed in the class schedule section.) Each quarter is celebrated with a solo recital and usually offers the opportunity for at least one outreach concert. Fees vary according to the length of the private lesson and the length of the quarter. Fall quarter is 12 weeks, and winter and spring quarters are 10 weeks each.
Beginning students may be charged for an additional 15 minutes for a weekly private violin lesson for the Suzuki parent until the parent completes the first book of the Suzuki method.
3) Does a student have to attend both private lessons and the Saturday Ensemble and Music Theory Program?
Yes, both private and group lessons are an important part of the Suzuki Curriculum.
4) Where are lessons given?
Most private lessons are given at the Phelan Studio off Corbly Street in Mt. Washington. Lessons are also available at St. Monica-St. George in Corryville. All Saturday group lessons are given at St. Monica-St. George. A map with directions to St. Monica-St. George is available on the home page.
5) How is the parent involved?
One parent is responsible for attending lessons, group, and music theory classes with his or her child. The parent is expected to take careful notes during lessons and work with the child at home during practice sessions. Ongoing parent education through parent talks by guest speakers, and articles on Suzuki parenting are available to help the parent be more successful. The parent is required to learn violin through the first book of the Suzuki Method.
Our parents have also generously donated extra time and effort for additional activities to make our program, with its limited staffing, so successful, but this is not required. However, we would not be able to offer as much as we do without the volunteerism of our parents and others in the community. Volunteer opportunities are listed in the support section. If there is something you would like to do, please call us. If there is someone who might be interested in our program, please let them know about us or let us know so we can contact this person. You do not need to have a child in our program to volunteer. Anyone, with an interest in our students and what we do, will be welcomed.
6) Do the children learn to read music?
Yes, they learn to read music at first separately from playing the instrument which is first taught through listening and repetition. Gradually, the student reads music while playing.
7) Can my child who was traditionally trained, enroll in a Suzuki program?
In most cases, yes, if the parent is willing to work with the teacher to make the transition smooth and successful.
8) Is there a summer quarter?
There is not a regular quarter during the summer. There is a one week violin camp that is offered in the middle of June. Private lessons are also available during the summer months on the days scheduled by the Phelans each year.