Suzuki and traditional flute
Schuller Flute Studio
"Music exists for the purpose of growing an admirable heart."
Shinichi Suzuki, Suzuki Method founder.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start flute lessons?
Please give me a call at 703-717-0140, or use the form on the contact page to send an email message to discuss starting flute lessons.
When are lessons available and how much is tuition?
Lessons are available all year and are divided into 8, 10 or 12 week lesson sessions. You may contact me at any time to sign up for lessons as the tuition may be prorated. Most young beginners take a private half hour lesson per week or are part of a small group class. One hour private lessons are also available. Visit the schedule and tuition page for the current rates and general schedule. Please call me for the current detailed lesson schedule.
What is the Suzuki method?
Dr. Shinichi Suzuki developed the Suzuki Method over 40 years ago based on the Mother Tongue approach. He realized that every child has musical abilities and could learn just as they learned to speak a language by starting at a young age and listening to music on a regular basis.
The Suzuki method emphasizes delayed note reading, parental involvement in lessons and home practice, group learning, graded repertoire, early beginning, listening, repetition, and encouragement from the teacher and parents.
Do I need a flute to begin lessons?
You do not need to have a flute to begin lessons. There are preparatory tone development exercises that don't immediately require an instrument. You, or your child, may start lessons and we can discuss the purchase or rental of a flute. Many of the local music stores have instrument rental programs. The resources page has several local music stores listed for instrument purchases or rentals. Students have many options for student flutes including instruments with curved headjoints for younger flutists.
Are there required music and materials?
The Suzuki CD is required to complete the listening assignments for Suzuki flute study. The Suzuki Books are recommended as a reference, but are not required until the student begins note reading.
For traditional flute study, method book(s) and repertoire will be based on student interest and skill level. Parents or the student should plan on purchasing study books and repertoire after the initial lesson.
What is your music and arts training?
I received my Suzuki teaching credentials after completing Every Child Can! (ECC) through the Suzuki Association of Greater Washington (SAGWA), Suzuki Book 1 at the Suzuki in the Berkshires Institute, and Books 2,3 and 4 at the SAGWA Institute. I also hold a BA degree in Music from the State University of New York at Plattsburgh, NY, and a MBA in Arts Management from Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY. I have been teaching Suzuki flute for 5 years.
I've performed in several masterclasses with composer and flutist Gary Schocker, and participated in workshops by flutists Toshio Takahashi and Akikazu Nakamura. I've studied voice and the Alexander Technique, and participated in dance and movement workshops with choreographers Nina Wise and Arawana Hayashi.
I taught private flute lessons in New York, and have held arts management positions with the Binghamton University Center for the Arts, Detroit Institute of Arts, University of Lowell (Mass.) Performing Arts Center, and the U.S. Marine Band, Washington, D.C.
Performances include concerts with the Virginia Grand Military Band, Pan American Symphony Orchestra, Piedmont Symphony, Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, Masterworks Chorale Orchestra, Southwest Chamber Players, Vietnamese-American Music Society, and Friday Morning Music Club (FMMC) Avanti Orchestra and chamber music recitals throughout the DC metro area. I also performed with the Professional Flute Choir at the 2009 National Flute Association Convention. I'm a member of the National Flute Association, Flute Society of Washington, Suzuki Association of the Americas, and the Suzuki Association of Greater Washington. Published articles include a performance guide for Victor Herbert's "L'Encore" in the July 2010 issue of Flute Talk, and on Franz Danzi's Concerto #1 in the September 2010 issue of Flute Talk publication.
Parents play an important role in helping their child during home practice sessions. Suzuki teachers give ongoing information to help parents with the home practice and understanding the lesson assignments.
more >latest news
11/2011
Suzuki and traditional flute instruction in Alexandria, VA. Openings for beginning and intermediate flutists ages four years and up are available. Visit the FAQs page for more information on starting flute lessons or call 703-717-0140.
11/2011
Flute lessons make a great gift for flutists and young aspiring flutists! Please call 703-717-0140 to inquire about gift certificates.
11/2011
The annual Suzuki Holiday concert will be held December 19, 2011, at the Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints Visitor Center, 9900 Stoneybrook Drive, Kensington, MD 20895. Over 100 flutists performed last year at this festive event. Enjoy the holiday decorations and The Festival of Lights. Performances at 7 and 8PM. No reservations required.