
Nurturing Tomorrow’s Suzuki Teachers
The Suzuki Piano Teacher Training Program at MacPhail, launched in January 2023, addresses the critical shortage of qualified Suzuki piano teachers in the Twin Cities and beyond. This initiative nurtures …
The Suzuki method transforms learning through a collaboration of parent, child, and teacher. MacPhail’s Suzuki program offers lessons on piano, violin, viola, cello, guitar, flute, and harp for students as young as age 3 through high school. MacPhail has one of the largest and most respected Suzuki programs in the country.
The Suzuki approach to music education is based on the belief that young children can learn to play a musical instrument the same way they learn to speak their native language – through listening, repetition, encouragement, and parental involvement! Parent, child, and teacher form the “Suzuki Triangle” to create a long-term, collaborative learning experience.
Instruments Offered
Cello, Flute, Guitar, Harp, Piano, Viola, Violin
Locations
Minneapolis
Apple Valley
Chanhassen
Format
Weekly private lessons and regular group classes (with a new parent class in the first semester).
Ages
Many start between ages 3–6, but it’s never too late to begin.
Tuition
Starting at $930 per semester (includes 16 private lessons + group classes). Financial assistance is available. Learn More.
Every journey begins with a first step. Fill out our Suzuki Placement Form, and our Suzuki Placements Coordinator will connect with you to share program details and answer your questions.
Discover the right fit for your family. You’ll have the opportunity to observe lessons, meet potential teachers, and learn more about the Suzuki approach.
Let the Music Begin! Confirm your placement, register, and start learning together.
Take your music further! Outside of individual lessons and group classes, students also have the opportunity to participate in studio and department recitals, workshops, orchestras, reading classes, advanced ensembles, and international tours.
Ready to get started? Fill out our Suzuki Placement Form.
Suzuki Early Childhood Education classes are a weekly interactive experience for babies and toddlers with a parent from birth through age 3. Songs, rhymes, stories, and instruments teach musical concepts, language and pre-reading skills, numbers, physical coordination, social and emotional skills, and much more! Parents learn to be active observers of their child’s learning process and build a repertoire of lullabies, action songs, and rhymes, with techniques for using them at home.
The Suzuki approach emphasizes encouragement and repetition within a calm, nurturing environment. Classes are team-taught by trained and experienced instructors. Teachers have undertaken long-term Suzuki teacher training and apply their knowledge of early childhood development and understanding of the Suzuki philosophy to their approach in the classroom.
Every child is born with outstanding potential. Parents are encouraged to observe and delight in tiny developmental steps in the Suzuki Early Childhood Education Class. Children grow their abilities and realize their fantastic learning potential with long-term, consistent participation.
In addition to the semester tuition, there is a one-time $25 materials fee for a CD/Booklet to listen to the songs at home and a journal to write in during class time.
Contact Ruth Bergman, Suzuki Early Childhood Education Program Coordinator.
In the Suzuki Method, children thrive in an environment of total support. Suzuki students develop confidence and self-esteem, determination to try difficult things, self-discipline, and concentration. As well, they acquire a lasting enjoyment of music, and the sensitivity and skills necessary for making music.
This year-long internship covers Suzuki piano teacher training units one and two and piano teaching strategies. Applicants are considered based on experience with college-level music courses, level of playing and desire to become a Suzuki-trained piano teacher.
Registered students: look here for department news, group class schedules, program events, the latest issue of the Gavotte, and the Suzuki Parent Handbook.
Please contact Claire Miller, Suzuki Department Coordinator