Studio Information

Suzuki Foundations

Dr. Shinichi Suzuki developed his method of string pedagogy in the post-WWII years in Japan. It is a popular method for starting young students on string instruments with a strong emphasis on listening, sequential repertoire, and developing relationships between the parent, teacher, and student (known as the "Suzuki Triangle"). Suzuki believed in building character through music and that every child is capable of learning.

Parental Involvement

Suzuki is a group effort!  In Suzuki, the parent plays an integral part.

The parent is expected to attend and take notes at all private lessons and group classes. They are responsible for overseeing  and organizing home practice. I will help you with all of this! Parental instruction is part of the lesson. 

Typical Week

Every week, you and your child will attend a private lesson in which we will go over specific exercises, games, and songs for your child to practice during the week. 

Depending on enrollment and playing level, we may also have a group class in which all students at your child's level will come together to do activities, games, singing, and moving. This will  reinforce the work we are doing in our private lessons. There may be additional material that we only cover in group class, so it is important to attend. 

For the remainder of the week, you will be expected to find 10-30 minutes daily to practice the material we cover in the lessons and group classes. You are also expected to do daily listening to the Suzuki reference recordings (recordings of the Suzuki repertoire that your child will be learning). 

• Weekly private lessons are held in Elm Heights. We will work to find a mutually convenient weekly lesson time. 

• Group classes will be scheduled according to students and families in a given group.

• 3-year-olds generally have 15-minutes lessions. As students advance over the years, lesson length increases to 30, 45, and 60 minutes. 

• Lesson weeks generally follow the MCCSC calendar. 

Payment Method

Payment may be made via check, cash, or Zelle. 

Supplies and Involvement

Parents agree to purchase, rent, or borrow all necessary supplies. Parents agree to attend all lessons and group classes, to organize and oversee daily home practice, and to be in close communication with me. The same parent that attends the lessons should be involved with home practice, unless otherwise discussed. 

Parents are encouraged to send texts with questions from home practice, including images and videos. I will try to respond within 24 hours, and will respond immediately if available.

My studio currently has limited space, and is primarily available for beginning cello students. 

If you have read the above sections and are interested in cello lessons, please fill out a Form of Interest. 

You are also welcome to email me directly: andrea.kleesattel@gmail.com