What is the Suzuki Method?

The Suzuki method is based on the philosophy of Japanese violin teacher Shin’ichi Suzuki, who believed that “every child can learn at a high level if given the right environment”. He suggested that if children are able to learn their home language and dialect perfectly, then correspondingly, all children will also be able to learn to play music, and based the method on the way we learn language: through exposure, imitation, encouragement, repetition, addition, and refinement. Parents are involved at every step of the way, working with the teachers to create a successful learning environment.

Our Suzuki Program at BKCM offers programs in violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, piano and flute. The curriculum incorporates three elements that provide the essentials needed for instrumental music education: private lessons, group/theory classes, and yearly group & solo recitals. Scroll down to learn more!

One Registration, 3 Components

GROUP & THEORY CLASSES

Group and Theory are critical components of our program. Students remain in their assigned group and theory class for the entire year. (Unlike private lessons, where the teacher stays the same from year to year, the group class teacher may change). It is a desirable feature of the method for students to experience being “challenged” by their group and to be a “leader” of their group over the course of several years in the Suzuki program. Students learn valuable skills from both positions. The Suzuki parent attend and take notes at all group and theory classes, and fold weekly assignments into their daily practice along with private lesson assignments.

Two Suzuki guitar students during a group class.

PERFORMANCES

In our program, children engage in a minimum of four annual performance opportunities, including both solo recitals and group showcases that hone their ensemble skills. Our faculty guide students to choose pieces that are already well-polished, preparing them carefully for performance. Because performing is an art that takes practice, we provide students with Performance Classes throughout the semester. Students step onstage completely at ease with the music they have chosen. For performers, these events are milestones that nurture self-assurance, resilience, and confidence. For concertgoers, the act of supporting each performer within a supportive  community builds trust and connection, deepening our listening, and instilling a lifelong love of music.

Both performing and attending performances are integral to the growth of our young musicians and are required parts of our program.

Orientation & Enrollment

Tuition Breakdown

ADDITIONAL FEES

$220 Materials Fee for 2023-2024: Includes Puppy Pack, Suzuki Book 1, Helping Parents Practice, Nurtured by Love, and parent information materials.

$40 Registration Fee for 2023-2024: The registration fee is charged upon registration and is non-refundable. This fee is paid once per family per school year.

$40 Payment Plan Fee for 2023-2024: If you choose to enroll in one of our payment plan options, you will be charged the payment plan fee which is paid once per family per year.

$40 Late/Missed Payment Fee for 2023-2024

SUPPLEMENTARY LESSONS

Additional private lessons outside of the package. Prices per lesson for 2022-2023 school year.

  • 30-minute lesson $90
  • 45-minute lesson $119
  • 60-minute lesson $140
  • 75-minute lesson $160
  • 90-minute lesson $177

The Suzuki Parent

Suzuki violin students during a strings group class.

Suzuki Early Childhood Education (SECE)

A young Suzuki student during a Suzuki Early Education class.