**** Update: Regular Workshop events are in the planning process. ****
In addition to private lessons, children significantly increase their musical ability by attending our group lessons, which we call Workshop. These have historically been held twice a month, September through May, although we are revamping our program for the 2025-2026 season, with details to be determined. Workshop and group lessons are a wonderful opportunity to learn and make music with other children in a supportive, non-competitive environment. They are an integral part of the Suzuki Method™.
Participation in Workshop increases a child's musical repertoire, orchestral skills, and knowledge of music reading and theory. Attending Workshop also helps children develop long-lasting friendships with others who are traveling a similar musical journey.
Our classes that we had in the past are listed below, to show some of the elements that we focus on. Classes accommodate students of every age and ability level.
Participation in Workshop increases a child's musical repertoire, orchestral skills, and knowledge of music reading and theory. Attending Workshop also helps children develop long-lasting friendships with others who are traveling a similar musical journey.
Our classes that we had in the past are listed below, to show some of the elements that we focus on. Classes accommodate students of every age and ability level.
Repertoire Classes |
Ensemble Classes |
5:45-6:25pm (40 min) |
6:25-7:10pm (45 min)
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Suzuki Class / Robin Johnson
Pre-Twinklers, Twinklers & early Book One students will progress in technique through early Suzuki and Kaleidoscopes repertoire, and other early childhood musical approaches. Bach Class / Marisa McLeod Students in Book One and Early Book Two will expand their capacity in Suzuki repertoire and other types of age/ability-appropriate compositions. They will learn the basics of music theory in a fun and engaging way. Handel Class / Molly White Students in Book Two will solidly their progress in Suzuki literature and increase their knowledge of and experience with other musical genres. They will develop a deeper understanding of and competency with music theory, which will prepare them for more advanced levels of musicianship. Vivaldi Class / Michele N. Ratajczak Students in Book Three and above will learn advanced performance techniques through Suzuki literature as well as through delving into musical compositions from around the world. They will explore advanced music theory for increased musical competencies. They will also be part of the Advanced Player Program, with guest performers having a Master Class experience with the Vivaldi Class students. |
Suzuki Class / Robin Johnson
Pre-Twinkers and Twinklers will engage in Music Mind Games, Kodaly, and other age/ability appropriate musical sensory experiences. (Class will end at 6:45, students may observe other classes for the final 20 minutes of Workshop) Bach & Handel Classes /
Marisa McLeod & Katrina Baumgart The first semester, students will engage in Early Note Reading adventures, experiencing site reading, and playing easy duets together. The second semester they will learn Fiddle Tunes, in preparation for fiddle jams and fun competitions at the Topanga Banjo and Fiddle Contest taking place in May. Vivaldi Class / Michele N. Ratajczak
Students will take part in advanced whole group music ensemble work, including both popular and classical music, and will have advanced small group experiences with other class members (duets & trios), deepening and broadening their musical competencies. Segovia Class (Guitar Program) /
Molly White & Kai Lonergan (6:15-7:10) 55 min This is a small group and multi-level guitar class in which we will play games, work on playing Suzuki repertoire, and reading new repertoire to improve reading skills. Playing and performing together will be a primary focus, as well as having fun! |
Parent Forums
8-9pm designated Mondays on Zoom
Topics include: Building Resilience in Children (and Parents!)
Outcomes
- The children will develop a sense of community in music
- They will build connections through music to their peers, parents, and teachers
- They will learn to play in groups and follow a leader
- They will develop stage presence
- They will learn about working toward a polished performance
- Ultimately the children will learn that music is a gift we can share with others to lift them up
- And finally they will be prepared to move onto other music ensemble experiences, such as full orchestras, fiddle classes and ensembles, and / or family celebrations
- Children and families will cultivate life-long learning in music for many years to come
Teachers |
Workshop |
