School of Music
Strings Institute
Page Content
Discover the Joy of Music through
the Suzuki Method at Southern Miss
At the Southern Miss Suzuki Strings Program, we believe every child can learn to play a musical instrument—just as they learn to speak—through encouragement, parental support, and daily exposure. Rooted in the philosophy of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, our program nurtures musical growth in children and young adults in a supportive, engaging environment.
We focus on early childhood development, daily listening, group learning, and active parent participation. Students gain more than musical skill—they build confidence, concentration, and a lasting love for music.
As part of the Southern Miss School of Music, our students benefit from world-class
instruction, world-class facilities, and a vibrant musical community.
The Suzuki Philosophy
🎶 Every Child Can Learn: Inspired by how children learn their native language, Dr. Suzuki believed every child possesses the ability to learn music.
👨👩👧👦 Parental Involvement: Parents play a crucial role as "home teachers," creating a nurturing and encouraging learning environment.
🎧 Daily Listening: Consistent listening to recordings of the Suzuki repertoire helps internalize the music, much like language immersion.
🤝 Group & Private Lessons: A combination of individual instruction for technique and group classes for motivation and social learning.
🔄 Repetition & Review: Mastery is achieved through continuous review of previously learned pieces, building a strong foundation.
🎉 Positive Reinforcement: Learning should be a joyful and positive experience, encouraging confidence and a love for music.
Our Programs
Our comprehensive Suzuki Strings Program provides exceptional instruction for young violinists, violists, and cellists, starting from as early as three years old. Students receive weekly private lessons tailored to their instrument and participate in engaging group classes that foster ensemble skills and a sense of community. The curriculum follows the established Suzuki repertoire for each instrument, building a strong foundation in technique, musicality, and a lifelong love for music.
- Weekly Private Lessons (Violin, Viola, Cello)
- Regular Group Classes & Ensemble Playing
- Numerous Concert & Performance Opportunities
- Individualized Instrument-Specific Instruction
Parents are the cornerstone of the Suzuki Method. Our program includes mandatory parent orientation classes and ongoing education to equip parents with the tools and understanding needed to support their child's musical journey at home.
- Introduction to Suzuki Principles
- Practice Strategies
- Observation Opportunities
- Community Support
Our Early Childhood Music Education program introduces preschoolers to the joy of music through playful and engaging activities. This early childhood music class focuses on developing rhythm, pitch, and a love for music in a stimulating group environment. It's a wonderful preparatory step for future instrumental study.
- Age-appropriate Music Activities
- Rhythm & Pitch Development
- Singing & Movement
- Parent-Child Interaction
Meet Our Faculty
-
Dr. Hsiaopei Lee
Director, Suzuki Strings Full Profile -
Dr. Borislava Iltcheva
Full Profile -
Graduate Students
Proudly supported by dedicated graduate string major students from Southern Miss.
Ready to Join the Suzuki Family?
We welcome new students year-round, based on faculty availability. Our enrollment process typically begins with a parent orientation session, followed by an observation period, and then private lessons. We encourage you to reach out to learn more about starting your child's musical journey with us.
- Initial Inquiry & Contact: Begin by contacting us via email at suzukistringsusm@gmail.com or by phone at (601) 266-4718. We'll be happy to answer your preliminary questions and discuss program availability.
- Attend a Parent Orientation: All prospective parents are required to attend a Suzuki parent orientation session. This session provides an in-depth understanding of the Suzuki philosophy, parental role, and program expectations. Please contact us for upcoming orientation dates.
- Observe Lessons: We highly recommend that parents and prospective students observe several private and group lessons. This offers valuable insight into the teaching environment and the learning process.
- Instrument Selection & Sizing (if applicable): For string instruments, proper instrument size is crucial. Our faculty can guide you in selecting or renting an appropriately sized instrument.
- Begin Private Lessons: Once all preparatory steps are complete, students will begin weekly private lessons with their assigned Suzuki instructor. The instructor will guide both parent and student through the initial stages of instrumental learning.
- Participate in Group Classes: Parallel to private lessons, students will participate in weekly group classes. These sessions reinforce concepts learned in private lessons, develop ensemble skills, and provide a fun, motivating social environment.
- Commit to Daily Listening & Practice: Consistent daily listening to Suzuki repertoire recordings and regular home practice are fundamental to the Suzuki Method's success. Parents will be guided on effective practice strategies.
- Engage in Performances & Events: Students will have regular opportunities to perform in studio recitals, group concerts, and other special events throughout the year, celebrating their progress and building confidence.
Get in Touch
Have questions about our program, faculty, or enrollment? Please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We look forward to hearing from you! Email us at suzukistringsusm@gmail.com.