Suzuki Pedagogy (311-0-1)

Instructors

Ann Montzka Smelser

Avi Friedlander

Meeting Info

RCMA Lower Level 121: Fri 11:30AM - 12:50PM

Overview of class

This course begins on January 8, the last in person class meets on March 12.

Ann Montzka Smelser and Avi Friedlander are your instructors. Either can be available
for consultation by appointment. Ann's email is annmsmelser@gmail.com and Avi's
email is afriedlander@northwestern.edu.

The course, An Introduction to Suzuki Pedagogy, is intended to explore the principles
and practices of the Suzuki Method of instruction with string majors.
This course will include study of the basic philosophy of Shinichi Suzuki, the history of
the Talent Education Method, and the pedagogical approach of the Suzuki Method.
Specific components include the following:
The Mother Tongue Method/ Language Learning Analogy
The Parent, Teacher, Student Triangle/Relationships and Responsibilities
Ideas for creating an inclusive learning environment
The concept of Tonalization
The importance of listening and review
The Pre-Twinkle stage of musical instruction
A comparison of the Suzuki Method with traditional instruction
The mechanics of setting up a Suzuki program
Balancing ear-training and note reading with the goal of musical literacy
An overview of the repertoire and teaching points in Book 1 of the Suzuki Method.

This Suzuki Pedagogy class will include the introductory course of the Suzuki
Association of the Americas, "Every Child Can!" This eight-hour ECC course is the
prerequisite for any further study in Suzuki Teacher Training. 100% attendance is
required for this segment of the course in order to receive accreditation through the
SAA. The ECC portion of this course will primarily take place between January 10
through February 20.

Teaching Method

Completion of required reading and class assignments.
5 hours of written observations* of Suzuki private lessons and group classes taught by
registered Suzuki instructors.
Passing the final written take home examination.

Evaluation Method

Class attendance and class participation (20%)
Observations, short assignments, reading reflections (40%)
The Take Home Final Examination (40%)

Class Materials (Required)

Unless otherwise notified, please bring your instruments to class from February 20 and
beyond.

All supporting resources will be shared under "files" in CANVAS. Some pdfs and video
links will also be shared from your instructors via email and occasionally handouts will
be given in class.

Nurtured by Love. by Shinichi Suzuki, Alfred Music Publishers. Revised Edition.

Every Child Can! An Introduction to Suzuki Education*. Suzuki Association of the
Americas.

This will require registering with the "Suzuki Association of the Americas" and paying a
$35 course fee. Completing the requirements of this ECC course enables you to
register for further units of Suzuki training courses.

In addition to the required reading, each student is expected to have a Revised or
International Suzuki Book 1 of the Suzuki Method for your main instrument.

Class Notes

Video links of recorded lessons will be shared for the purposes of observation only.
Please keep these private for your own viewing.

Class Attributes

SoC Humanities and Fine Arts Distro
SoC Individual and Social Behavior Distro