The Suzuki Triangle
Student
Spend time with the cello every day.
Handle your instrument with care and respect.
Complete homework assignments, which may be practice with the cello or occasionally written work.
Bring your materials to your lesson.
Listen daily to recordings of your music and other inspiring music.
Attend concerts when you have the opportunity.
Attend our two studio recitals in Spring and Fall.
Come to lessons with a desire to improve and willingness to try new things.
Parent
Bring your child to lessons on time.
Attend lessons of beginning students, until it is mutually decided that parent attendance is no longer necessary.
Take notes and ask questions in lessons, but allow your child to answer questions and communicate with the teacher, as building confidence and independence is an important part of lessons.
Encourage listening at home (and in the car or wherever!)
Provide a quiet, well-equipped space for home practice and assist with practicing when necessary.
Make payment for lessons on time.
Teacher
Be knowledgeable about the material.
Approach the student and family with a positive attitude and sense of respect.
Give clear assignments and expectations for home practice.
Provide performance opportunities.
Pursue continuing educational pursuits including mentorship, collegial discussions, observations, and workshops.
Be available at the agreed upon lesson time and communicate clearly about any schedule changes.
Be available for questions.
“Mary’s toolbox of tricks for young cellists seems as bottomless as Mary Poppins’ carpetbag. Whenever my daughter is stuck on something, I reassure her: ‘Mary will know what to do about that.’ And she always does! At the same time, she has a lot of empathy for her kids. She’s always happy to share a story about a challenge she’s gone through so her students know they’re not alone when they’re struggling.”
-Elizabeth L.