Pre-twinkle piano
"Enjoyment of the moment" is a key phrase that describes our program’s philosophy. It is our hope that parents will enjoy their children’s development as they move through these important learning years. Never will children learn so much and seem to move so slowly! But with trust in what is to come, parents can find immense satisfaction in the mastery of each step and observe first-hand a solid foundation being formed.
All new parents and children are asked to observe a minimum of two private lessons. At these times the Suzuki Triangle can be seen in action: parent, teacher, and child working, sharing, and having fun together. Success in the Suzuki approach depends upon this triangular relationship, rooted in a rich environment. Additional observations of group classes, recitals, and play-ins are strongly recommended. Observing students already playing will give new students and parents confidence that they too will learn to play.
If the Pre-Twinkle student has to miss a class, this will not be made up; rather, the parent is asked to come, take the lesson, observe the other children, and participate in the discussions. Children develop at different rates and are not expected to move at the same pace. Each child will develop as an individual, not in competition with others, but sharing with each other.
The Suzuki Philosophy is one based on love, yet we know that discipline is a part of love. As children begin lessons, training is directed toward helping them understand behavioral expectations. The parent’s help and cooperation in this area will aid in the child’s progress and contribute to the overall learning atmosphere of the class.
Finally, parents with questions, problems, or just the need for some reassurance are urged to call the teacher. The Pre-Twinkle experience is a time for planting the “musical seeds.” If we give them time and proper nurturing, they will begin to grow, a little at a time!
To ensure the best possible start, we prefer to schedule beginners under the age of five for two lessons per week. The piano lessons are taught in a class of two (thirty minute) or three (forty-five minute) children and their parents. Lessons include discussion of Suzuki philosophy, questions, parent lessons, and individual time with each student. All children and parents are expected to be prompt for the lessons and stay until their conclusion. Parents can learn more by observing someone else's child than their own; likewise, children gain much from watching and listening to their friends, as well as being observed by others.
This class situation is most beneficial and highly recommended. However, if scheduling in a group setting is impossible, the three or four year old beginner and parent can enroll in a thirty minute private lesson.
After the first year in the PreTwinkle program, the teacher advises whether to stay in a class or move to
a thirty minute individual lesson, according to the age and attention span of the student
