The Westchester Suzuki Institute

recital performance
Each student is asked to play a polished piece as a solo at the first private lesson - an opportunity for the teacher and student to get acquainted musically. All students should select a piece from the repertory that he or she has learned very well - possibly even performed already.

solo recitals - Solo recitals will take place one afternoon during the Institute at 3:00.  Students who wish to play a solo will sign up
to do so. A pianist will be at the recital to accompany students in their solo performance.
 

observers
Teachers or adults, other than parents, who wish to observe Institute classes and activities must register as observers.

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enrichment classes
Please note: students have two free periods—one of which is lunch. If a student chooses to sign up for two enrichment classes s/he would be able to eat lunch during the class breaks, but will not have an entire lunch period.
 

handbell choir

Learning to ring handbells as a group is a unique way of making music, and is a study in teamwork that cannot be surpassed!  Not only must one play one's assigned bell(s) at the correct time, one must listen carefully to those around them so as to have the assigned notes sound mellifluous in context.  Manual dexterity, eye-hand coordination, and acute listening skills are developed, and lead to a rewarding musical experience and heightened sense of performance responsibility and accomplishment. And, it's fun! Students must be at least 7 years old and have 2 years of note reading experience to participate in this enrichment class.  Cost for the class is $100.00

fiddling

Students playing in Book 2 and above may sign up for a Fiddling Class. The class will meet for 45 minutes per day and students will learn a variety of fiddling styles, techniques and tunes. The fee for the Fiddling Class is $100.

chamber ensemble
The more advanced students (not tween program participants) may elect to participate in a chamber ensemble for the week. Violinists must play in Suzuki Book 5 and higher. Violists and cellists must be in Suzuki Book 4 to sign up for chamber music. The fee for chamber ensemble participation is $200.

composition/music theory
The composition/music theory class will be an exciting opportunity for young musicians to develop basic compositional skills. In addition, students will have the hands-on experience of working on finale and/or MuseScore - computer music-writing programs.  Students must be at least 8 years old and have 2 years of note reading experience to participate in this enrichment class. Cost for the class is 100.00

hidden gem composers

Learn exciting new music composed by people you have never heard of! Students must be at least 8 years old and have 2 years of note reading experience to participate in this enrichment class. Cost for the class is 100.00

chorus

Use your first instrument – your voice!! Open to students and parents. Come learn musical concepts and make beautiful music together through singing!  The fee for the Chorus Class is $100.

parent program
The Institute is designed to be a family experience. Since parent participation is an essential part of the Suzuki Method, at least one parent or guardian must attend all classes with his or her child(ren). Activities are spread throughout the day for most students. Families should make a commitment to participate in all activities offered in order to benefit fully from the Institute. Parents take study notes for their child and may video their child’s lesson if they wish.

parent discussion groups
Special lectures and discussions will be offered for parents throughout the week. Issues pertinent to parents of both beginning and advanced students will be discussed. Parent groups are led by Institute teachers, parents and invited guest speakers.

practice at the Westchester Suzuki Institute
Practice rooms are available for student/parent practicing throughout the day. In addition, practicing is welcome on the beautiful open lawn when weather permits.