To help you find the best teacher for your child, we have provided information that will assist you with interviewing prospective teachers as well as a list of teachers.

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Steps to Finding a Teacher

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• Decide which teachers you would like to interview.

• Contact & interview each teacher you are considering.

• Make appointments to observe lessons of 2 or 3 of the teachers you have interviewed.

• Decide with your child (if appropriate) which teacher s/he would like to study with.

 

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Sample Interview Questions

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• What is your training, educational background, and teaching experience? 
  Many teachers will have had Suzuki teacher training conducted by master teachers, certified as teacher-trainers by the Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA).

• What is your teaching philosophy?

• What is my role as a parent?

• Are opportunities provided for group musical experiences?

• Does your program include regular recitals or performance opportunities?

• How many lessons per week or month?

• What length lesson do you recommend for my child?

• Do you have a written studio policy?

• Where is your studio located?

• What is the tuition and when are payments due?

 

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What to Watch for When Observing Lessons

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• Observe the relationship between parent & teacher and child & teacher.

• Is there a good balance between concentrated work and relaxed conversation?

• Are corrections made in an encouraging and supportive way?

• Does the teacher demonstrate the ability to solve basic technical problems that a student may have?

• Does the teacher make sure the parent understands how & what to practice at home?

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Suggested Reading

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To better understand the Suzuki philosophy of Talent Education, you may find it helpful to read some introductory materials before selecting an instrument and a teacher.

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• Nurtured by Love by Shinichi Suzuki

• Ability Development from Age Zero by Shinichi Suzuki

• Suzuki Concept by Elizabeth Mills and Sister Cecile Murphy

• To Learn With Love by William and Constance Starr

• Teaching from the Balance Point by Ed Kreitman

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Finding a Teacher

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There is a list of teachers available at  this website.

To find teachers in our branch,

enter "Orange County Strings Branch" in the search field.