The Suzuki Association of the Americas has recently begun revising its method books, beginning with the violin series. As the first in the series, Suzuki Violin Book 1 is the first to be released in its updated version. The new edition includes much more instructional text than ever before, catered toward helping both the child and parent learn together about how to play and care for a stringed instrument. Great attention has been paid to detail, including instruction on which parts of the instrument need to be cleaned after each practice session.  The photographs are revised, and now include the basic stances, bow holds, and other essentials, from several different angles, to allow the student to be more meticulous in their study.

Suzuki Violin School Book 1 now includes glossaries of terms the students need to learn in addition to the music. The music itself is presented in slightly larger print, which is easier for young students to follow. One of the most striking changes involves the fingering numbers; as the book progresses, fewer are included than in previous editions. This is done to encourage students to become stronger note readers.

Possibly the most motivating of the new additions to Suzuki Violin School Book 1 are the quotes from the method’s founder, Shinichi Suzuki. Included are personal quotations and pointers that the master has given to countless other Suzuki students, such as “Finger, Bow, then Go!” (See page 24 for more details). Suzuki’s motivational catch-phrases have been heard by generations of students trained by his method, and are now captured within the pages of his method book.

For more information, consult the website for the Suzuki Organization.

- Ashley Offret, Violinist & Shar Apprentice