The Suzuki triangle: the role of the Suzuki parent
‘The Suzuki triangle’ refers to the student, teacher and parent who are all crucial elements if a young child is to reach their musical potential. The ‘Suzuki parent’ (it can be a grandparent or another carer, as long as they are invested in the child’s learning and can fulfil the criteria below) is responsible for:
o Observing lessons and taking notes
o Encouraging the child to practise, reminding them what the teacher says to focus on
o Making sure the child listens to the CD every day
o Creating the right environment for the child to progress: encouraging them to explore music more widely, playing music in the car, at dinner, bathtime etc; and most importantly providing positive reinforcement, praising every achievement, however small (in the same way that a baby’s first vaguely word-like noises were greeted with excitement and encouragement!).
For more information on becoming a Suzuki parent see Sheila Warby’s book With love in my heart and a twinkle in my ear: A parent’s guide to Suzuki music education.
How much is a lesson?
Each weekly lesson is £15 for 30 minutes.