Our Program Suzuki Philosophy - Readings The Suzuki Guitar program at the SuzukiMusic of Ottawa features the following in delivering an holistic approach to education: Weekly Private Lessons Our program includes 35 private lessons during the year.  Private lessons are held at the teacher’s studio. The duration of each lesson varies from 15 to 60 minutes depending on the age and level of the student. A Suzuki certified teacher will walk with your child step by step through the Suzuki repertoire in order to develop the skills that allow Suzuki students to discover, from the very first lessons, the joy of making music. The Suzuki guitar repertoire is a carefully chosen set of pieces that represent a logical progression of technical development, as well as a collection of beautiful music. From the very beginning, the focus is on playing and having fun with the instrument. Suzuki students begin their study of the guitar with a series of rhythmic variations on the theme “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”. Rhythms from more advanced literature are presented here in units small enough for a beginner to grasp quickly. Different games and enjoyable routines are used in class to encourage repetition and skills development. Group Lessons Our program includes 15 group lessons. Group lessons are held at Canterbury High School on Saturdays. Group lessons help to foster musical community and camaraderie, and provide motivation for students to learn new music while maintaining the pieces they have already learned. The dynamic of the class encourage cooperation and the bond of a larger family. Our group lessons are tailored to consolidate as many elements of music as possible, tonalization, phrasing, musical expression, memory development, ensemble performance, as well as positive reinforcement of concepts learned in their individual lessons. Children and parents get together in a relaxed atmosphere and participate in games, share music, and educational activities. Group lessons give students valuable ensemble experiences and positive reinforcement of concepts learnt in their individual lessons. Play–In and Concerts A play-in is an opportunity to perform for all the Suzuki School musicians and is held at the cafeteria of the Canterbury high school.  All instruments take part of this great event.  All of the guitar students get together and showcase the music they have been working on in their group lessons. It is a precious experience for the children to be part of a large group of musicians with different instruments. And for the parents to see the face of their children when this “magic” happens. Frequent public performances foster self- esteem and make the experience of performing both natural and enjoyable. Parent Education Parents play a crucial role in the Suzuki approach. Learning takes place in an environment of cooperation between the teacher, the parent and the child.  The parent’s role includes attending each lesson with the student, taking notes and guiding them during their practice at home. They become the “home teacher”.  Parents practice daily with their child at home, play the Suzuki CD daily, and help to create an environment of affection, support, encouragement and understanding. Your private teacher will provide you with tools and resources and walk you step by step through this enjoyable process. The SuzukiMusic School of Ottawa offers educational sessions to guide parents in how to work with their children.  No previous knowledge of music or the guitar is necessary. Practice Guide from William Kossler Suzuki-Guitar Repertoire The Suzuki repertoire covers all styles and periods of music. Teachers supplement the Suzuki repertoire as needed, particularly in the area of teaching music reading. This helps to widen the student’s musical experience. Children will be exposed to different music genres and styles (see repertoire samples). The stage at which the child begins to learn reading music varies according to age and general development, but is is always introduced after some playing skills have been acquired. This allows the child to maintain their focus on beautiful tone, accurate intonation and musical phrasing. As in the process of learning a language, the reading skills come after mastering the oral skills. By sharing a Suzuki repertoire in common, children have a bond with Suzuki students world-wide.