SAA Suzuki in the Schools Overview

Suzuki in the Schools Level Courses and Enrichment classes are designed to share curriculum, sequences, materials, and strategies to assist any Suzuki teacher in teaching group classes, school classes, and beginning ensembles. The daily course framework includes philosophy, materials, methodology and logistics for use of the Suzuki method in groups and school settings. Each syllabus is also designed to expand any teacher’s ability to differentiate instruction towards addressing the needs of all children and all types of learning. Topics for discussion include ways to cultivate not only culturally diverse classrooms but also learning communities that demonstrate compassion and kindness. While these classes were designed for the Suzuki in the Schools teacher, private teachers are finding value in applying the teaching concepts in studio settings. Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 Unit Courses as well as specific enrichment courses are currently available.

SIS Level 1 Course Description

This course is designed with a focus on group learning and practice. In addition to discussion of core Suzuki Book 1 material, additional repertoire and methodology are included in the class structure. Materials feature unison ensemble materials that enhance technical work and provide ensemble foundations. An expansive pre-Twinkle section includes materials and strategies for pre-twinkle solo and group work. Technical work for all string instruments will be covered through the “Rigadoon/Etude” solo level. Foundational concepts of literacy and sequential development of ensemble skills are woven into this curriculum. Other topics such as mastery, group learning, student engagement, and parent education and involvement will be discussed.

• The technical aspects of the curriculum are focused on violin, viola, cello and bass, however transfer of learning principles and adaptation of materials can be applicable to any instrument.  

• Observations will be a part of the 25-hour class structure and will take place during class time. They may include watching live or pre-recorded group classes taught by the instructor and/or teaching examples and concert videos.

• Class assignments will be tailored to each participant’s needs and particular situation and are designed to enhance understanding and serve as teaching tools in the future. 

• Over 300 pages of additional resources will be made available to course participants.

• Participants are encouraged to bring videos of their own class teaching to the course to share with the instructor or with the class for feedback and discussion. 

• Participants must have completed ECC and Suzuki Unit 1 on their primary instrument to register this class with the SAA. 

SIS Level 2 Course Description

The Suzuki in the Schools Course Level II presents strategies for incorporating Suzuki philosophy and methodology in the intermediate stages of instruction in a string class setting. Core Suzuki pieces and supplementary repertoire that supports these concepts will be presented and discussed. The course continues development of key strands of learning such as group instruction, aural skills, literacy, and ensemble skills. Choosing repertoire to both engage students and develop technical and musical skills as one of the most vital components of a well-designed curriculum will also be addressed. 

This course will present strategies for the foundational development of slurs, shifting, string crossings, sight-reading skills, minor tonality and advanced finger patterns, vibrato, rhythmic sensibility, and advanced bow strokes in a heterogeneous setting. Participants will acquire a basic understanding of fundamental principles of learning, and practice creating successful learning experiences that effectively change student thinking and behavior. Additional course activities and topics will include discussion of ways to describe end goals and design representations of progress, vertical programming, age-appropriate parent involvement and successful approaches for using peer feedback and self-assessment. 

• The technical aspects of the curriculum are focused on violin, viola, cello and bass, however transfer of learning principles and adaptation of materials can be applicable to any instrument.  

• Observations will be a part of the 25-hour class structure and will take place during class time. They may include watching live or pre-recorded group classes taught by the instructor and/or teaching examples and concert videos.

• Class assignments will be tailored to each participant’s needs and particular situation and are designed to enhance understanding and serve as teaching tools in the future. 

• Over 200 pages of additional resources will be made available to course participants.

• Participants are encouraged to bring videos of their own class teaching to the course to share with the instructor or with the class for feedback and discussion. 

• Participants must have completed Suzuki in the Schools Unit 1 to register this class with the SAA. 

SAA Enrichment Course Description

Enrichment courses are 10-hour courses designed to focus on a specific topic for Suzuki teachers. Courses may be instrument specific or more general in content and they may be of interest to private teachers as well as those teaching in school situations. Curriculum and materials for each course have been carefully researched. 

Title: Reimagining Literacy for String Teachers 

This course will explore new concepts, sequences and materials for teaching literacy skills to string students. Discussions will include reimagined learning sequences that foster development of all aspects of literacy for the studio or classroom student including teaching aural skills, the transition to visual notation, fluent sight-reading and music theory as it relates to our string instruments.