Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Suzuki method differ from other methods of piano instruction?
The Suzuki Method is based on the “Mother Tongue” approach. Dr. Suzuki theorized that children can learn to play an instrument just as they learn to speak: by listening and then by imitating what they hear. Once children have developed their ear to the point that they have learned Volume 1 of the repertoire, they begin to learn to read musical notation. This mirrors how children learn to read and write once they already know how to speak.
For more information, read our blog post about the Differences Between the Suzuki Approach and the Royal Conservatory program.
What is a good age to start Suzuki piano lessons?
Beginning as early as possible has definite advantages in terms of ear development. Most Suzuki teachers suggest that children are at least four years of age before beginning formal lessons, though children as young as three can be ready, too. Attention span is key – if a child can sit and focus on one specific task for 10-15 minutes, they are more likely to be successful at lessons.
How do I know if my child is ready to play piano?
If the parent is “ready,” the child is ready. The Suzuki Method requires the full participation of the parent in lessons as well as in the child’s home practice, particularly when students are beginning. It is the parent’s commitment and active participation that ensure that the best possible environment is created in which the child can learn.
What is a lesson observation?
An observation is an opportunity to learn what the Edmonton Suzuki Piano lesson experience is actually like. The observing family will have an opportunity to view a lesson with an ESPS student who is a similar age or skill level to your child. Through observation, you’ll learn more about the Suzuki Approach, get to know our teachers, and determine what is expected of students and parents. The observation will help you to decide if our Suzuki program is right for you and which teacher you would like to work with.
How much do lessons cost?
Our school term is based on 37 weeks of individual programming as well as monthly group programming. There are two fees. The annual registration fee begins at $305 for a beginner (returning students pay $180 beginning in year 2). Most students begin with a 30-minute lesson, and the tuition for those lessons is $1184 ($32 per 30-minute lesson.) Most families opt to make 10 monthly payments of $118.40 for tuition.
Where is your piano studio?
Each of our Edmonton Suzuki Piano School teachers provide lessons out of their home studios, and they are located throughout Edmonton and surrounding communities. Families are free to choose any teacher. Our teacher biographies and their studio locations can be found here.
Unfortunately, our Edmonton Suzuki Piano teachers have demanding schedules and cannot travel to students’ homes for lessons.
Do we need to participate in both individual and group lesson programming?
Yes! Individual lessons focus on the student, and group classes provide an opportunity for students to use those skills learned in individual lessons to connect socially and musically with our larger Suzuki community. Group class is also an opportunity to enhance skills in theory, musicianship, and ensemble playing in a more relaxed setting.
How often do we need to listen to the recordings?
Sometimes teachers quantify this in terms of a certain length of time for passive listening: for example, two hours a day. The reality is that the more the child hears the music they are learning, the easier it will be to learn the pieces, and the more effectively they will be learned. In our program, it is the parent’s responsibility to play the recording at home as much as possible. This can be accomplished in the car, during meals, during play time, or even at bedtime.
How much practice time is required?
Dr. Suzuki famously stated: “You don’t have to practice every day – only on days that you eat!” Daily practice ensures success. Each week at a lessons, students take home their list of tasks and specific goals for home practice. These will look different for each student, and the length of time it takes to accomplish these task will very, too. At practice time, some families will split practice into short segments throughout the day, others will complete practice in one session. Typically, a beginner student will practice approximately 15-30 minutes each day. On days when a child is sick or one does not have access to a piano (for example, on holidays), listening to the recording is a good way to “practice.”
Why do I need an acoustic piano instead of a digital one?
Even the best digital piano cannot match an acoustic piano in terms of touch and sounds. Since the Suzuki method focuses above all on playing with “beautiful tone,” an acoustic piano is an absolute necessity.
What is my role as a parent in piano lessons?
The parent and student attend Suzuki lessons together, and the parent actively but quietly observes the lesson. In the lesson, Suzuki teachers ensure that both the student and the parent have a clear understanding of what needs to be practiced at home during the week to come. Parents take notes during the lesson that detail practice goals and tasks for the following week.
Do you teach instruments other than piano?
For nearly 50 years, we have exclusively focused on providing Suzuki piano instruction. We believe that specializing in one instrument ensures we can provide our community with the highest quality programming. Other Suzuki groups offer specialized instrument instruction if you are interested in studying another instrument.
What qualifications do your teachers have?
Edmonton Suzuki Piano School teachers are professional musicians and music educators who provide lessons in studios throughout Edmonton and surrounding communities. All teachers have a degree in music or have achieved RCM Level 10 and are working towards their ARCT. To qualify to teach with Edmonton Suzuki Piano School, interested teachers must also have completed Suzuki-specific training, including Suzuki Volume 1, and follow an observation process with other ESPS teachers. ESPS also offers ongoing professional development opportunities for its teachers.
How do you become a teacher at Edmonton Suzuki Piano School?
We are always interested in talking to individuals interested in teaching Suzuki piano. Whether you are currently a Suzuki piano teacher looking to expand your studio and community or trained in another style and looking to become a Suzuki piano teacher, you can review our careers section on the website or contact us for more details.
“Tone has a living soul.”