Bay Chamber Music School in Rockport announces a new Suzuki violin program, led by our newest faculty member, Suzuki violin instructor Sarah Glenn. The Suzuki philosophy, developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki more than 50 years ago, emphasizes that anyone can become a fine musician with the right kind of guidance, especially young children. The Suzuki method is appropriate for any age, beginning as early as ages three or four.

Together with Glenn, the Bay Chamber Music School invites parents and children to explore this unique approach to developing musical interest and abilities. The Suzuki violin program provides a secure and proven musical learning environment, entirely tailored to the specific needs and developing minds of young children.

Dr. Shinichi Suzuki founded the Suzuki method based on the belief that children learn music best in the same way they learn language from their parents. Also called the "Mother Tongue" method, Suzuki students learn first aurally, by listening, and through repetition. Once basic technique is established, students begin reading music, typically at the same time they begin reading in school.

Because the Suzuki method is built around the idea of learning music the same way language is learned, a great deal of emphasis is placed on the parent-child relationship. Parents attend all lessons and classes, practice with their child, and create a supportive environment at home that is conducive to learning. This does not mean that parents must be musical; rather it means that they too must be willing to learn and be an active participant in the child's music education.

The Suzuki violin program at Bay Chamber Music School includes a weekly private lesson, group classes, and performances throughout the year. Glenn moved to midcoast Maine with her family in December 2012, from Boston. For the past ten years, Glenn has taught violin at the North End Music and Performing Arts Center, and coordinated education and community engagement programs for the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Glenn is currently teaching at Bay Chamber Music School on Tuesdays and Saturdays, with rolling enrollment opportunities available.

For more information about the Suzuki violin program or any of Bay Chamber's offerings, please contact Joan Kulle at 207-236-2823 or visit www.baychamberconcerts.org.