:: Student Curriculum ::
To register in the Suzuki student program, all students must be BEYOND the Twinkles at the time of enrollment. The only exception to this is for voice students, bassists having completed the Bass Enrichment class, or with special permission of the director.  Please contact the institute office regarding availability of a bass. 

Student tuition includes 4-5 daily classes:
1. shared individual lesson (master class)
2. large group lesson (repertoire performance class)
3. note reading or improvisation class
4. 1 enrichment class.
(5). Depending upon the students’ playing and reading level, some students will also be assigned to an ensemble, such as orchestra, flute, guitar, voice or piano, in addition to their core curriculum classes. (Students eligible for piano ensembles receive a list of music to prepare in advance, however, orchestra, flute, voice and guitar ensemble music is not available before the first rehearsal.)


Photo by Bodo Schlaberg

 

Vocal Program for Students!


Photo by Bodo Schlaberg

Students will be able to register for a full Institute experience in vocal development, technique and performance. Each student will receive a daily master class including personalized vocal instruction on pieces they have prepared. In addition, students will participate in a daily group class which will emphasize performance poise, stage presence, vocal projection and stylistically appropriate interpretations. The daily technique class will focus on exercises that enhance the production of a natural, vibrant and resonant tone, as well as instruction in English and foreign language diction. The daily, animated, ensemble class will work towards a production of Broadway Revue at the end of the week, highlighting the skills learned, fostering friendships and ensemble work. Vocal program students will also be enrolled in a theory/ musicianship class to enhance their musical understanding.

Students should prepare two pieces from memory to bring to the master class. In addition, students should bring another working piece to the Institute. Each student must bring two copies of each piece they will sing: one for themselves and another for the accompanist. Pieces must have a piano accompaniment and all music must be in a printed format. Students may bring along Karaoke accompaniments to their pieces, but they must also submit the music in printed format to the instructor. The following music will be considered suitable for teaching: Folk, Disney, Broadway, Pop, Opera, Art Songs, English and Foreign Language songs. However, not all music is generally suited for each student’s vocal classification. Consideration should be given to the appropriateness of the range, the subject matter, and the actual teaching –pedagogical value of the pieces chosen.

Students should consult their vocal teachers to help them select repertoire that will be suitable for the Institute experience. There is no minimum age to enroll, but to obtain the maximum benefit from the vocal program, students should be able to read words, sing on pitch and be ready to sing for a teacher and for others.

:: Musicianship/Improvisation Class Levels::
As part of the core curriculum, all students take a note reading or improvisation class. We are very excited to be able to offer teacher lead selfpaced learning in laptop computer labs using Sibelius software. To ensure students receive the most effective experience, the following levels have been defined. Consult with your teacher to determine your child’s appropriate level and indicate it on the registration form, accompanied by your teacher’s confirmation email. If a student is not ready to advance to the next level, register the student at the lower level. Do not split levels, such as B/C or B+C-.

  • Level A: Pre-Reader
    Has studied only preparatory skills; no transfer of skills to an instrument yet.

  • Level B:
    Recognizes note values and rests; can read and perform simple rhythmic patterns; can identify lines and spaces on the staff; recognizes steps and skips of one note. The skills indicated have been transferred to note reading using the instrument.

  • Level C:
    Understands the meaning of simple time signatures; can read and perform rhythmic patterns in all simple time signatures; recognizes intervals by size; understands and performs melodic fragments containing seconds and thirds.

  • Level D:
    Understands the meaning of compound time signatures; can read and perform rhythmic patterns in all time signatures (simple and compound); recognizes and performs intervals by size and quality; recognizes and understands all major key signatures and related melodic patterns.


Photo by Bodo Schlaberg

:: Additional Student Options ::

  • Chamber Music Ensembles
    Available on a limited basis.  Applicants include a VHS videocassette tape or DVD recording.  String students submit a polished solo of their choosing.   No recordings accepted after 4/1/2008.  Label your CD/DVD with your name, instrument, and attach a photocopy of your student application or online confirmation.  String students receive their assigned ensemble music in mid May and are expected to have prepared the music to a rehearsal-ready level by the beginning of CSI 2008. This opportunity replaces the enrichment course option and requires an additional fee.     Additional fee: $195
  • MASTER CLASS ON A SECOND INSTRUMENT
    Students interested in studying two different instruments should register for both sessions. Use individual registration forms for each session and indicate the instrument you want for each session. We are not able to offer an additional master class on a second instrument within a single session.
  • VIOLIN TUNING CLASS
    Offered to students in Book 2 and up, ages 7 or older. This one-time, one-hour class includes installing strings, using tuners and pegs, listening to pitch, tuning techniques and helpful hints. Bring your instrument. Class is scheduled during one of the student enrichment/group hours. Different sections are grouped by age. There is also an “experienced” section for students who have taken this class before and want a refresher. Please indicate if you want the refresher section. There is a separate section of this class for teachers. Additional fee: $34

 

:: Music Readiness ::
This program is designed for children ages 0-7 years old who are studying a Suzuki Method instrument at the Pre-Twinkle or Twinkle level or who have not yet started formal musical (specific instrument) instruction. This program includes a Music Readiness class and a music rhythm/movement class in the mornings. The classes build on each child’s natural enthusiasm for music and movement and provide basic musical skills needed to enjoy participation in school and social musical activities as well as encourage formal study of a musical instrument. A parent or caregiver should attend both morning classes each day with the student.

  • MUSIC READINESS 1
    (Infants, prewalkers and pretalkers) Parent-tot interaction is the emphasis in this class. Learn new ways to use music, movement and tactile objects to play productively with your little one.

  • MUSIC READINESS 2
    (Walkers and talkers) Singing, dancing, books and pretend play will delight your child in this class. Basic music concepts are introduced, increasing your child’s musical intelligence.

  • MUSIC READINESS 3
    (Older three-year-olds through age six.) Children who are ready for greater challenges will enjoy this class. Your child will sing and play games which are uniquely created for music readiness. Combining various ages of children allows for mentoring.


Photo by Robert Schlaberg