“My daughter started her violin journey with the RSC Suzuki program 5 years ago and she has benefited immensely from their curriculum. Her private teacher has been fantastic, building an incredibly solid foundation of the techniques and music expression. My daughter also absolutely enjoyed her time in the group lessons where she can play with peers who share the same passion, while being inspired by listening to the performances from the more advanced students. We are so grateful to the program and feel lucky to be part of the Suzuki community.” — RSC parent
About Suzuki Private Lessons & Group Class
Here at the Rivers School Conservatory, Suzuki instruction is warm and nurturing for young students, with a high standard of achievement. Our students gain a skillful technical foundation and a love of learning. Our teachers have a clear vision and pedagogy that supports teaching young beginners and helping them grow into accomplished musicians.
The Suzuki method is modeled after the way that all children learn their native language. Students listen to artist recordings, they internalize the sounds, then they develop the ability to beautifully play the musical sounds they hear. Parents take an active role in supporting their child by taking notes in lessons and assisting during home practice.
Our Suzuki program is a robust experience that includes a weekly private lesson, a weekly group lesson, and performance opportunities. The private lesson is the foundation of learning with the most personalized technical instruction. During the group lesson, children love being with their peers to learn and make music together. The group lesson develops ensemble skills, which are not possible to acquire in a private lesson alone, and will benefit their future musical endeavors of youth orchestra and chamber music. The group lesson also serves as a booster of motivation for our young students, helping to inspire their home practice. During the group lesson we feature Sharing Time, which is a unique aspect of our program. This is a weekly, casual performance opportunity where students can perform a polished piece as soon as they have one ready. There are also formal recital opportunities available regularly to all RSC students enrolled in private lessons.
Suzuki Violin Young Beginner Primer for 3 year olds (minimum 2.9 by September 1)
Sundays at 12:30-1:15
This class will introduce preschool-age students and their caregivers to studying the violin. We will explore violin posture, beginning violin technique, and general musical concepts such as rhythm and melody. Weekly practice assignments will foster the routine of daily home practice that will become vital in future Suzuki violin lessons. A caregiver is required to observe each class, participate in partner activities, and help their young beginners practice the home assignment between class meetings. Please contact Lauren Cless at suzuki@rivers.org for more information.
Suzuki Violin (ages 3 and up) | Lauren Cless, Sean Larkin, Lisa Lederer, Jenna Potts & Emily Rome, violin faculty
All Technique and Musicianship classes are on Sunday afternoons, please inquire for available private lesson times.
Suzuki Viola (ages 3 and up) | Emily Rome, viola faculty
Please inquire for available times.
Suzuki Cello (ages 3 and up) | Taylor Stobinski, cello faculty
All Technique and Musicianship classes are on Wednesday afternoons, please inquire for available private lesson times.
Suzuki Guitar (ages 4 and up) | Catherine O’Kelly, guitar faculty
Lessons are offered on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
New! Suzuki Flute (ages 3 and up) | Kelly Watson Woelffer, winds faculty
Suzuki Flute students receive weekly private lessons and 12 group classes each semester. Using a joyful, whole-child approach, students develop ear training, music reading, and playing the flute with a beautiful tone alongside building ensemble and music theory skills in group classes. Caregivers can expect to attend lessons and will learn how to practice with their child at home, strengthening connection and lifelong learning. Ages 3+ welcome.
Getting Started with Suzuki Instruction
Interested students should email Suzuki Program Director Lauren Class at suzuki@rivers.org to be placed with the appropriate group and teacher.