Suzuki Violin
at Merrimack Valley Community Music School
Your child (aged 4-6) can learn violin the Suzuki way with our Certified instructor Simone Cartales! The Suzuki method has long been heralded for its broad range of benefits both musically and beyond.
Musical Benefits
Good ear and intonation: Frequent listening and imitation help students develop a strong sense of pitch. Suzuki students develop the ability to learn songs by ear in a very natural way.
Solid technical foundation: Skills are introduced gradually through repetition and carefully sequenced songs and activities.
Love of music: There is a strong emphasis on creating a positive relationship with music rather than viewing practice solely as a task.
Broader Benefits
Confidence and self-esteem: Children are regularly successful in something challenging and gain satisfaction from mastering something new.
Parent-child connection: The parent’s involvement creates an opportunity for parents and children to learn and accomplish something together.
Character development: Suzuki philosophy places value on kindness, sensitivity, respect, and developing the whole child, not simply producing a skilled musician.
About Suzuki:
The Suzuki Method is based on the idea that children learn music like they learn their native language, through listening, repetition, encouragement, and a nurturing environment. Every child has the potential to become a great musician when given consistent support and positive guidance.
Some of the core principles of Suzuki education include:
Learning by ear first. Students listen to their repertoire daily, helping them develop the ear for beautiful tone, musicality, and sense of pitch before even learning how to read music.
Small, sequential steps. Skills are introduced gradually so that students build confidence and develop a strong technical foundation.
Review and repetition. Previously learned pieces remain part of a student's practice. This allows the student to return to previous pieces with evolved technique and gives them the opportunity to perfect many pieces.
Positive encouragement. Lessons and at home practice focus on positive encouragement of the student, helping them develop perseverance and confidence.
Learning in community. Group classes, performances, and shared musical experiences are an important part of Suzuki education whenever possible.
One of the defining features of Suzuki lessons is the active role of the parent or caregiver. Especially with young beginners, the parent attends every lesson, takes notes, and acts as the "practice partner" during daily practice at home. Rather than needing to know how to play the violin themselves, parents help establish a consistent practice routine, encourage their child, and reinforce what was learned in lessons. This partnership between teacher, parent, and student is one of the greatest strengths of the Suzuki method and plays a significant role in a student's success.
Now Enrolling for Fall 2026!
Suzuki Violin at Merrimack Valley Community Music School
Suzuki method provides students with an in-depth musical experience that includes one weekly private lesson and one weekly group lesson. Students will be grouped based on their age and level. We are currently accepting students ages 4-6 to participate in our Suzuki program.
Students 7+ are welcome to inquire, but we may not be able to accomodate a group class for older students.
*Students under 4 are accepted on a case by case basis.
Group lessons:
Thursdays 4:00-4:45 PM starting September 24, 2026
Private lessons:
Scheduled individually starting September 17, 2026
Rates:
$1,376 - with group class of 3+ students
$1,648 - with group class of 2 students
Includes one semester of: ● 30 minute private lessons
● 45 minute group class ● Recital