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Activities and Opportunities of the UNI Suzuki School
The weekly individual lesson is the foundation of the Suzuki program. The lesson may vary in length from 30 minutes to 60 minutes depending on the age and level of the student and the recommendation of the teacher. Students are encouraged to come early and/or stay later to observe other lessons. 2. Parent Class A class for prospective students' parents is held prior to the start of our regular beginner session each fall. This intense two week session is an introduction to the Suzuki approach. At the end of the two week session, families can decide whether to continue with the Pre-Suzuki Class for their child. This class for prospective students (ages 4 1/2-7) is held at the beginning of the year for 4 to 6 weeks. This introduction to the Suzuki approach is held twice a week. It is designed to give the families an introduction to the program. By the end of this class, parents can decide to enroll their child in the regular program. 4. Group Lesson All students enrolled in the UNI Suzuki School are placed in a group class according to their playing level. Group lessons are held once a week. 5. Fall Event An annual social event is held at the beginning of each year for students and their families. Details are announced at fall registration. 6. Recitals and Performance Classes UNI Suzuki School sponsors two solo recitals each year. Students with their teacher are asked to select a recital piece from the book prior to their current piece. Using a review piece for performance ensures a more relaxed and confident performance. The recital experience also gives the students experience in sharing their musical accomplishments and strengthens self-confidence and poise. A reception prepared by the parents usually follows for performers, parents, and other guests. The recitals are preceded by a week of performance classes. Each student is assigned to a class of 3 to 5 students which meets with the recital accompanist and a teacher to prepare for the recital. Coaching regarding recital etiquette and rehearsal with the other UNI Suzuki faculty members make this a unique learning atmosphere for our students. Performance class takes place instead of individual and group lesson. A popular event in our program is the December Holiday Play-In. All students gather and present an informal group ensemble program. This program is festive in nature, and especially enjoyed by the children. Special holiday treats are served by the parents following the program. 8. Area Performances and Public Appearances Throughout the year, there are a number of formal and informal performance opportunities offered to the students in the Suzuki program. We are often invited to play for nursing homes, class demonstrations, festivals, and at a variety of different community service group functions. As the teachers accept these invitations, parents are encouraged to allow their child to participate as time warrants. Sign-up sheets for volunteer performers are posted on the school bulletin board with time, location, planned repertoire, and other details. Although these programs are wonderful public relations opportunities for the Suzuki program, they are especially valuable for the children's musical experience and much appreciated by our many audiences. 9. Reading Group Sessions, Theory Classes, Beginning Orchestra, Chamber Music Ensembles As teacher availability and space allow, these special opportunities are offered to students beyond a particular level. Fees will depend on the number of meetings held. The annual spring concert is the most important educational and motivational event of the year. In our method, which places so much emphasis on developing ability through careful review and polishing of skills already learned, preparing for this concert provides incentive for the review process. In performing pieces learned in previous years, students and parents are reminded of how much progress has been made and can have a greater appreciation for the musical growth of the student. 11. Summer activities Most of our teachers offer summer lessons. All students are expected to continue their music instruction during the summer. There are no group lessons scheduled during the summer. Summer lesson information is available at the end of April. Our group performs each summer at area celebrations which may include My Waterloo Days, Sturgis Falls, and College Hill Arts Festival. Repertoire lists are included in the May newsletter and sign-up sheets are posted on the school's bulletin board. 12. Parent sessions and meetings A parent discussion group is usually held each semester and focuses on a particular aspect of the program. All parents are invited to attend these sessions to share with each other their experiences with the Suzuki method. 13. Somer Streed Memorial Library Materials of interest to our students and parents are included in our lending library. Books and other items may be checked out for a few weeks. The library is available on group lesson days or by special request. Donations to the library are most welcome. UNI Suzuki School has a limited supply of student sized instruments for rent. Adult size instruments for beginning parents can be rented through the program during the year. Donations of outgrown instruments are welcome. 15. Field trips Occasionally, the Suzuki School offers bus trips to Iowa performances of interest to our students. A fee is charged to cover the costs of the trip plus the event ticket. Announcement of these trips is made by monthly bulletin or by group announcement. 16. Northern Iowa Youth and Junior Orchestra Auditions for these special groups are open to any area string student in grades 5-12. Auditions are held in the fall. The orchestras will perform one to three concerts each year. There is a special fee charged for participating in these groups. |
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UNI Suzuki School Phone: 319-273-2508 email: unisuzuki@cfu.net Last updated: 07/14/2008 Site maintained by UNI Suzuki School.
For more information about the University of Northern Iowa visit: http://www.uni.edu/ |
