Suzuki Summer Institutes

Even though it is still cold outside, now is the time to be thinking about Suzuki Summer Institutes.  

What is a Suzuki institute?  

Suzuki institutes are a place where students, parents, and teachers come together for about a week to learn and have fun together. It is how the Suzuki community connects and learns from each other.

During the week, students will participate in lessons during a master class, group classes like improvisation, choir, handbells, or Orff instruments, and in daily recitals (either as audience members or performers). Parents accompany their children to most classes, but there is also a daily parent class to talk about Suzuki music study and practice. At the parent class, parents can ask questions and share ideas about working with their children.

The atmosphere is so friendly. Everyone learns a lot, but has fun doing it!

This is also the place where Suzuki teachers get their training. Although I am not planning to attend this year, I have really enjoyed the ones I have attended.  There are two that are relatively close to us here in PA.  I have attended each one at least once and enjoyed both.

The Greater Washington Suzuki Institute is just outside of D.C. in Anandale, VA. The area is very nice and although you do have to drive to get to the institute location each morning, it is easy to access. Their piano institute is June 24-27.  Fees are determined by how old your child is, and whether you take the handbell elective or not. Visit this website for more information: Greater Washington Suzuki Institute or download their brochure here.

The Greater Pittsburgh Suzuki Institute is July 28-August 2. This institute will also include violin, viola, cello, flute and guitar Suzuki students, so you will probably get to hear a variety of instruments at the recitals. Fees are determined by what book your child is in. Visit this website for more information: Greater Pittsburgh Suzuki Institute.

Why attend a Suzuki institute?

Testimonials from parents (and grandparents) of students who attend an institute are that the students grow in their knowledge and ability and that they are reignited with a passion for their instrument. Spending time with a group of students who are also studying their instrument is inspiring and encouraging. 

I highly encourage all of you to consider attending an institute either this year or next year. If you have family in another state, check the Suzuki website for institutes in their area.  Maybe you could combine a family visit with a Suzuki institute!

Here are two short videos from that last institute I attended (Greater Washington). (Sorry about the quality.) This was the final recital of the week, so it featured groups who had been working on pieces all week, like this handbell choir:

and this piano trio: