Now that I have a couple years of Suzuki parenting behind me, and two children in lessons, I’ve spent some time reflecting on how my children’s teachers have supported me as the practice parent and what I can do to better support the parents in my studio. As a teacher, I sometimes forget that the […]
Suzuki Planet Podcast Episode 7: Frankie, violinist from California
Brecklyn talks to Frankie about why she chose the violin, practicing three times a day, and fun group lesson games. Frankie recommends this book. Listening Suggestion of the week: Franck Violin Sonata played by Itzhak Perlman. Practice Suggestion of the week: Pick a go to and a back up practice time.
Should You Let Your Suzuki Student Switch Instruments?
You may be surprised by my answer, and not long ago, I would have been too. I would have said, “Absolutely not. I will not let my children switch instruments.” My reasons for this stance were good. And to some extent, I stand behind them still. I didn’t (and still don’t) want my children to […]
Suzuki Planet Podcast Episode 6: Audrey, violinist from North Carolina
Brecklyn talks to Audrey about how practicing is like brushing your teeth and some great ideas for practice fun. Listening Suggestion: String Quartet in F Major by Maurice Ravel Practice Suggestion: One handed practice. Listen to this week’s episode on the SPP Parent Edition podcast here. We discuss great ways to transition to practice.
Suzuki Planet Podcast Episode 3: Kerissa, violinist from Ohio
Brecklyn talks to Kerissa about learning to read music, reviewing every day, and the thrill of learning something new. Tip of the week: put your number one practice goal on a big sheet of paper. Listening suggestion of the week: I‘m Not Perfect by Laurie Berkner. Thank you to Neil and Rachel of Chili Dog Strings for […]
Suzuki Planet Podcast Episode 2: Aliya, Cellist from Utah
Brecklyn talks to Aliya about playing in a quartet, taking cello lessons from her mom, and the power of a checklist. She also recommends two books: Bliss and Percy Jackson Tip of the week- Use a timer Listening suggestion of the week- Korngold Violin Concerto in D Major Thank you to Neil and Rachel of Chili […]
Suzuki Planet Podcast Episode 1: Lacee, 11 year old Suzuki violinist from Texas
Avoid burnout by joining orchestra! Brecklyn interviews the amazing Lacee, an 11 year old violinist from Texas. She talks about what she loves about her teacher, what talent really is, and the magic of reserving practice time for pop songs. Tip of the Week- always get some practicing done in the morning. Listening Suggestion of […]
Restarting Your Practice Routine After a Break
Holidays can be rough on our goals to practice consistently with our kids. All the regular routines have gone out the window. Sometimes we’re traveling, or hosting relatives. And, for me where I live, it is winter. And that’s the worst. The dark days and gloomy weather just makes me want to hide in bed […]
Suzuki Parent Payday: M’s Weekly Lesson Debrief
One of my most difficult jobs is that of Suzuki parent. This may surprise someone of you, but this job is doesn’t have great pay. I spend hours and hours practicing with my kids and taking them to lesson and group class and concerts. And do I get a cent? No, I do not. In […]
The Suzuki Student’s Journey: M’s Weekly Lesson Debrief
I’m very lucky in my son’s violin teacher. She is so kind and patient, not only with M, but with me too. While M is learning the important lessons of appropriate lesson behavior, self-confidence, and persistence, I’m learning some pretty important lessons too.