Shinichi Suzuki, a Master violin teacher and founder of the Japanese Talent Education Movement, revolutionized violin teaching. Outstanding results have been achieved in violin, viola, cello, string bass, harp, guitar, recorder, and piano instruction. The Suzuki Method works on the principle that every child can develop his abilities during the early and sensitive years far beyond what most people can imagine.

A child can learn music through the same process he learns his mother tongue language. Thus, the parent’s role is vital in the development of early learning ability. The parent attends lessons with the child and helps with practice at home. The parent’s knowledge of the instrument and music is developed along with the child’s. The basic principles of the Suzuki Method consist of listening, motivation, proper technique, repetition, and reinforcement. The primary goal is to train the child not only in his musical abilities, but also in his total human development.

Families agree to the following:

Parents:

· In the Suzuki Approach, parent participation is necessary in order for the student to be successful. Therefore, a parent must be at all lessons, both private and group.

·The parent agrees to practice daily with their child(ren) at home and to set up a daily regime of music listening as requested by Martha.

·Parents do not need prior musical education in order for their child(ren) to be successful.

·Parents agree to work creatively toward scheduling a private lesson during a time of day when their child(ren) is not tired.