Why am I using the Suzuki Method?

In traditional one-on-one piano lessons for beginners, the learning starts with sight-reading. Students read music and play the corresponding notes at the same time. However, this method has a downside. Beginners often struggle to balance reading the music and using the correct fingers to find the corresponding keys, making it challenging to apply the proper technique for playing. This struggle can lead to inappropriate finger strength, making it hard to produce beautiful sounds. As a result, I later changed my teaching method and used the Suzuki method's "mother-tongue" approach.

The Suzuki method stands apart from traditional approaches by rigorously following the natural language learning sequence: it starts with listening, progresses to speaking, then reading, and finally, writing. This sequential approach mirrors the way we learn our native language. We create a musical environment by "listening to music," immersing children in the process. We meticulously prepare music for students, and parents can consistently play these pieces at home or while out, ensuring repeated exposure to the music.

These are the same pieces that the children will later learn and perform. Another key aspect of learning a language is starting with 'imitation'—imitating how others' speak,' or in this case, how they 'sing' the music they've heard.

During this process, as we listen and sing, we guide children in mastering the correct techniques. We ensure that the arm, wrist, and individual fingers apply the proper pressure and fall onto the keys in precise sequence. Once these essential skills are in place, we introduce "sight-reading" as part of learning to read and write music. At this stage, students can play the notes with grace and precision, creating more beautiful music.