Photos and video

Learning: Lessons and practice information

Suzuki Voice
Ages 6-12

Suzuki voice gives children the opportunity to enjoy the one instrument given to them at birth. The lessons are given individually so that the child feels comfortable about singing solo voice. Learning about the importance of good posture and its effect on the breath is one of the first considerations. It is fun to explore the range and quality of each voice and as their ears become accustomed to hearing the notes at matching the pitches and patterns with their voices, their ability to concentrate improves. Voice study introduces students to new languages and the fertile ground of a child's imagination is stimulated. This ability to communicate in words and music helps the child grow in confidence as they explore the possibilities of their unique voice. In Suzuki voice, children study the same repertoire progressing into each gradel level. By sharing a common goal, students become secure in their singing.

Traditional Voice
Age 13-Adult

Traditional voice study and Suzuki voice study share the common goal of developing a natural and free singing technique based on the fundamental principles of the Italian School of Singing. The old idioms "Si canta come si parla" (one sings as one speaks) or "Si parla bene, canta bene" (one who speaks well sings well) are foundations for the individuality and life of our singing voice. Our speaking voice is as unique as our thumbprint. As we develop awareness of how we use our voice and body, we begin to develop healty technique. Repertoire from traditional voice is chosen according to each individual's experience and voice quality. The only prerequisite for voice study is a desire to sing and communicate through words and poetry.

Registration policies and forms

Thank you for your interest in the Preucil School of Music.

Please contact the school for Voice lesson registration information.

Preucil School of Music - Main Campus
524 N. Johnson St.
Iowa City, IA 52245-2840

Financial aid is available.

Voice faculty

Gloria Galask

Gloria has a Masters degree from the Univeristy of Iowa and has been an active soloist and vocal teacher in the Iowa City community for the past 28 years. She has been on the faculty of Coe and Cornell Colleges and has maintained a private vocal studio. She has been both performer and director at the Riverside Theatre and the Iowa City Community Theatre. She has also worked with children from Footlighters and the Iowa Children's Museum.

Pre-twinkle violin

“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!

Level 1 (the first year of violin)

Two classes per week are scheduled, consisting of two to four children, each with a parent. Classes include discussion of Suzuki philosophy and its application, questions, parent lessons, individual instruction with each student, observation of each other’s lesson and group activities. Parents often can learn more by observing someone else’s child than their own; likewise, each child will gain much from watching and listening to friends, as well as being observed by others. All children and parents are expected to be prompt for lessons and stay until their conclusion.

Two classes per week in the beginning stages provide more hands-on experience for the teacher and student and ample time for training the parent as home teacher. Class size and make-up sometimes change after the introductory stages have been completed but still meet twice weekly. All scheduling decisions are made to offer the best training situation for each child.

Level II (the second year- optional)

Two students are paired to receive one forty-minute partner lesson per week, plus The New Beginners' Class which meets on Thursday afternoons. The PreTwinkle fee applies with no additional cost for New Beginners' Class. During the partner lesson the children receive individual instruction, observe each other's lesson, and sometimes play together. The New Beginners Class places several children together to review fundamental violin skills and pieces already learned. This is the beginning of the group experience which continues throughout Suzuki study, and is enjoyed by the students. Pairing for partner lessons for Level II is carefully considered at the end of Level I by parent and teacher. After Level II, children move to an individual thirty minute lesson and continue to participate in the string class curriculum. In some circumstances, children may proceed directly to individual lesson and classes after Level I.