What happens at a Suzuki Institute?

by Jonathan Smith

Your child will have a daily group class where she will play her review Suzuki repertoire in a group of the same level in preparation for a group concert at the end of the week. You may have a technique class which is a small group class to work on specific skills throughout the week. Other possible classes could include a movement class, theory/reading class, master classes, orchestra, and chamber music. Each day your child will have 3 or 4 class hours that they will attend. Daily individual practice is also highly recommended. Other activities might include opportunities to play in solo recitals, optional classes like fiddling, attending concerts, and other activities like arts and crafts, swimming, soccer, basketball, and ultimate Frisbee.

After a busy week everyone will be exhausted but happy and filled with motivation to come back the following year! I remember enjoying my time immensely at the summer institutes I attended as a kid. I was kept very busy at these institutes spending time in my classes, personal practice, optional activities, and spending lots of time with the new friends I made at the Institute.