Program Description

The daily schedule includes private lessons (small master classes) and group repertory classes for all levels from book 1 through advanced, arranged according to level and age. The program is designed with the understanding that parents will be involved, as they are at home, with lessons, practice, and the general supervision of their children.

A typical day at the Suzuki Institute may begin as early as 8:00 a.m. may and include:

  • Master Class (A Class)
  • Technique Class (B Class)
  • Repertory Group (C Class)
  • Orchestra (appropriate levels only)
  • Movement Class
  • Advanced Repertory Class
  • Chamber Music (appropriate levels only)
  • Fiddling
  • Practice
  • Recitals
  • Evening events

Enrollment is open to students studying Suzuki violin, viola, or cello literature with a teacher who has done Suzuki teacher training.

Each student is asked to play a polished piece as a solo at the first meeting of the master class, an opportunity for the teacher and student to get acquainted musically. No matter what the level of current study, the student should select a piece from the repertory that he or she has mastered.

Institute Faculty members may recommend students for participation in the afternoon recital program. These students have the opportunity to rehearse with a professional accompanist before performing on the institute recitals.

Class Descriptions

Master Class (A Class) – This is a group of 3 or 4 students and 1 teacher. The teacher will usually take part of each class to work individually with each student. All students are similar in age and level.

Technique Class (B Class) – This is a group of approximately 16 students and 1 teacher. All of the students are playing repertoire within a few pieces of each other and will cover specific technical issues common to all students at this level.

Repertory Group (C Class) – This is a large group of students and 1 teacher. This is usually all of the students studying in the same Suzuki book.

Orchestra – All students age 7 and older are assigned to an orchestra. Orchestras concentrate on music reading skills and orchestral techniques. The North Carolina Suzuki Institute orchestras are organized primarily by age.

Movement Class – All students age 6 and younger are assigned to a Movement or Dalcroze class. These classes focus on rhythmic movement and general music knowledge.

Special Classes

Advanced Repertory Class – The institute has repertory classes for the most advanced students who have progressed to a point they wish to study specific pieces beyond the Suzuki repertory.  Advanced Repertory piece for 2023 is:  Mozart G major Concerto, mvt 1.

Chamber Music – Students who are 13 and older or in Book 6 and above can choose to participate in a string quartet or other chamber music ensemble coached by NCSI faculty. These groups are organized according to age and repertoire level.

Fiddling – This class is geared toward students who want to experience the world of Bluegrass fiddling. Students will learn fiddle tunes, harmonies, improvising tricks, bowings, and learning how to play backup, as well as many other stylistic elements of fiddling. The ability to read music will be helpful in this class but is not required. Learn your instrument in a special, fun exciting way and join us for inspiring sessions to increase the variety of styles in which you play.

Viola for Violinists – A violinist’s introduction to playing the viola, led by Gail Acosta.

Pre-Twinkle Day Camp

The Pre-Twinkle Day Camp is designed for four and five year old beginners who may not be ready for the rigors of a full week of the institute. This mini-institute will include group repertoire classes and a movement class.  This day camp is schedule for the Saturday and Sunday before the main institute begins.