My Teaching Philosophy - FAQ

Q. what sets Suzuki flute apart?

- it starts with the ear
-music is an aural art; it is a language
-strong reading skills are also a must, but well-developed aural abilities are the foundation

Q. do Suzuki flute teachers use other repertoire?

yes! my students learn a huge variety of other classical music as well as other styles of music
- anime, video music, pop songs are big favourites
- they learn “pop classics” to be familiar with the standard repertoire
-they also enjoy studies (etudes) and scales, and may participate in music exams and music festivals

Q. is Suzuki a brand?

the Suzuki approach is a philosophy of education like Montessori, Kodaly, Dalcroze and others
the International Suzuki Association is a not-for-profit organization with the mission of promoting and safe-guarding Suzuki’s ideas
- printed materials are sold through Alfred Publishing and other entities that are licensed to use the Suzuki name
- individual teachers bring their own ideas but also benefit from a rigorous training system - you can see what Suzuki training your teacher has received at the Suzuki association of the Americas web site {www.suzukiassociation.com)

Q. do you teach teachers about the Suzuki approach?

yes! as a Teacher Trainer with the Suzuki Association of the Americas, I teach flute pedagogy to teachers as well as students. I do this locally, and I am also invited to travel all over the world to give workshops and courses.

Q. so you teach adults as well as children… how old (or how young) can you start?

There are almost no limits… I don’t teach infants to play the flute! Early childhood music classes are best for early musical experiences, before beginning formal instrumental lessons. However, I have successfully taught beginners from three to forty-five years of age, and my oldest student to date has been 83 years old. The fun, exploratory, skill-based approach that underpins the “Suzuki method” is the ideal way to learn music at any age.

Please feel free to contact me for an appointment to talk further! Music and music education are my passion. I am happy to share my ideas and experiences at any time.