PARENT'S PAGE

Thirty-minute lessons are recommended during the first few years of study. In the beginning, this time will be shared by child and parent, in order to instruct the parent in his or her role as home teacher. The parent is expected to observe all lessons and supervise home practice until the teacher determines that the student is sufficiently mature to work without help.

WKU Pre-College teachers are fluent in many of the various instructional methods of the day, including Suzuki (rote/learn by listening) and more traditional (note reading/theory) methods. The method of instruction used for each student is determined by the parent and the teacher, with an emphasis on what will work best for each student’s individual needs.

The Suzuki Method was born in Japan, with the basic philosophy “All children can learn”. This instructional method uses listening, repetition and daily guidance from the parents (home teachers) to train young students. The Suzuki Method promotes a positive atmosphere for very young students, showing them with discipline and encouragement – anything is possible!
Also, for Suzuki violin and viola students:
The following is required reading for new parents:
Suzuki, Shinichi. Nurtured By Love
Starr, William and Constance. To Learn With Love

Traditional string instruction combines the aural emphasis of the Suzuki Method and the note reading/theory emphasis of teachers like Paul Rolland. Students will begin by learning basic skills on the instrument in a rote or call-response method. Shortly there after, note reading is introduced. Note reading is an important part of every string students’ journey. Basic music theory is taught at all lessons, with a focus on applying concepts to skills learned on the students’ instrument.

The Group Class – Violin/Viola
Group performance classes meet once a month, working on technical skill development, repertoire review, and ensemble performance in a highly motivational setting. Students are placed in a group according to ability level at the beginning of the school year, and should remain in this group throughout the year.

While parents are not absolutely required to attend group classes, it is highly recommended; parents can utilize many ideas from these sessions to improve home practice. It is also extremely helpful to observe your child’s participation, behavior, and preparedness. Please remember that although the children are having fun and we occasionally ask for applause, this is a lesson, so observers are asked to sit quietly, including siblings!

Orchestra Participation

Currently, the community provides several youth orchestras at different levels for further musical growth. When your private teacher feels that your child is ready he or she will advise you of the appropriate orchestra to join. All students should take part in an orchestra as an important component of their training. Orchestras provide an excellent environment for developing reading skills and leadership qualities, along with making friends.

Alternative Styles – Fiddling/Jazz

WKU string instructors are all fluent in the alternative styles of string playing, otherwise known as fiddling or jazz. If you are interested in studying either one of these styles as a part of your private lesson, please let us know. Beginning students will all be required to complete certain basic skills before they can perform fiddle or jazz selections. Students who come in to our program with prior experience are welcome to include fiddling in their lessons, as long as they have the approval of their instructor.