Philosophy

“A person with a fine and pure heart will find happiness”

Suzuki ‘s goal was not to create musicians. The fact that an increasing number of the world’s professional musicians started their study via the Suzuki method is a benefit of Suzuki’s approach, not an intention. The benefit of studying music, to Suzuki, was an increase in sensitivity and understanding that would lead to a better, more enriched life.

“Talent is no accident of birth”

Suzuki also believed that given proper training and the right learning environment, ALL children can acquire what most people call 'talent' but Suzuki preferred to call 'ability'. Being a violinist himself, Suzuki applied his educational theories to music. He began to teach the violin and eventually started 'The Talent Education Institute' in Japan.

Suzuki in Piano Professional

A special Suzuki issue of EPTA's termly magazine, Piano Professional, has been published in January 2007.  The publication contains articles covering different aspects of the Suzuki approach, including Suzuki in schools and working with children with special needs, as well as debates on controversial topics such as nurture and nature, parental involvement, sound before symbol, and group versus individual lessons.  To view these articles, written by a dozen Suzuki teachers, parents and children, click on the link below.

EPTA Piano Professional, January 2007, edited by Jenny Macmillan