Denison University Suzuki Program

Mission Statement

Our Mission is to create a positive musical learning partnership among faculty, students, and their parents/practice partners by following the philosophical principles and educational methods developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki so that children can grow into loving and respectful individuals who will have a positive effect on their world.

Instruction for all ages

We currently offer Suzuki instruction in Cello, Flute, Piano, Violin, and Viola. Interested families are encouraged to contact Jim Van Reeth, director, and register to attend one of our Talent Education Gatherings for more information and to meet our teachers.  

The next Talent Education Gathering will be Sunday, November 8 in the Burke Rehearsal Room, following our Program Recital at 3 p.m. in the Burke Recital Hall.  See the current events page for more information.

There is often a waiting list of families preparing to join our program.  Observations, studying the philosophy, and listening to the Book I recordings are recommended during this time before lessons begin.

Tuition Assistance Program

The Denison University Suzuki Program is very pleased to announce the start of our Tuition Assistance Program with the spring semester in 2009.  Through this Tuition Assistance Program [pdf], we hope to diversify our student base by enabling lower income families to afford Suzuki music instruction and assist current families with multiple children who often find it difficult to pay for the same music instruction for their youngest child that they have been able to provide to their older children.  The grants will also help us maintain dedicated students and families who encounter temporary financial struggles. 

Winter Workshops 2010

Get a good start to the New Year by attending one of our winter workshops. 

Strings in the Snow, January 8 and 9, will feature clinicians Alice Ann O'Neill, cello, Colleen Fitzgerald, violin, and James Hutchins, violin.

Flutes in the Frost, January 15 and 16, will feature flutist Wendy Stern.

Polar Pianos, January 16 and 17, will feature Mary Craig Powell, piano.

All workshops will include Rhythm Classes with Terrence Karn.

Information and Registration Forms may be found here.

Fall Program Recitals

There is one remaining Program Recitals this semester:  Sunday, November 8.  Speak with your instructor to reserve your spot.  Program recitals are held in the Burke Recital Hall.  Doors open at 2:45 p.m. and the recitals begin at 3 p.m. with a reception following in the lobby.  Friends and family are welcome!

Group Class Prep

For all students (and their practice partners) who do not yet play Go Tell Aunt Rhody, we are excited to offer Group Class Prep.  This group class is designed to give students an introduction to group class participation while teaching basic music and movement skills.  Important dates and information regarding this class may be found on the Current Events page.  Photos of this class may be found on the photo page of this website. 

Fall Group Classes

The next group class weekend is October 23rd and 24th.  Please check with your teacher for location and times of your class.  If you have any group class photos to share, please email them to Maryfrances Kirsh.

Flute Fall Practice Party

More information regarding the Flute Fall Practice Party may be found on the current events page.

Denison Suzuki Review

The October issue of our newsletter, Denison Suzuki Review, is now available.  Please see your teacher for your copy or enjoy it on line in our newsletter section.

Piano Performance Registration Begins

Registration has begun for pianists performing in the Granville Christmas Candlelight Walking Tour on December 5 or the Goodwill Ambassadors' Tour on December 12.  Space is limited, so please speak with your teacher and add your name to the list on the piano bulletin board on the third floor of Burton Hall.

Photos Added

Photos of group classes and the September Program Recital have been added to the photo page.  Many, many thanks to parents for sharing these with us. 

Supervision of Children

Students and siblings must remain with their practice partners at all times while on campus.  Children should not be in the halls or bathrooms unattended.