Parent Handbook

Group Lessons

Getting the students together on a weekly basis to play for and with each other was an innovation of the Suzuki Method. Group lessons are a very effective way of building enthusiasm and motivation. Their purpose is fun, motivation, modeling, learning some theory, and most important for pianists - creating a social aspect to music.

Both individual and group lessons provide two different kinds of learning opportunities for your child. It is very important that your child attend his individual lesson each week and his group lesson each month.

Group lessons provide motivation

For pianists, having a social and a sharing aspect to their musical life is very important to keep motivation. The Group Lesson lets the child have an opportunity to perform, but also to let him hear the pieces he will be learning. It is a chance for him to hear what kind of piano playing is in store for him, and to help each other achieve that goal. I recall as a young student, I attended my studio recital and listened to the performers. When the more experienced students played, it always motivated me to continue my studies. Many of the pieces I begged to learn I had first heard other students perform.

A time to learn about note reading & theory

At Group Lessons, theory and note-reading concepts are introduced. Music theory ideas are considered by many music students as the dreaded aspect of piano lessons. But, a student is not a complete musician until he understands the meaning behind the music. Uncovering such mysteries opens up a whole new world of excitement and adventure! There is much enjoyment in learning through games in a group setting. If you as a parent do not read music, or feel weak in that area, attending the group lessons will help you, too. Group lesson attendance is a requirement, not an option of the Suzuki Piano Basics of Mansfield program.