School of Music
Strings Institute
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Discover the Joy of Music through movements at the young age & the Suzuki Method at Southern Miss
The Southern Miss School of Music proudly offers an Early Childhood Music Education program specifically designed for preschoolers. This program introduces very young children to the joy of music through playful and engaging activities. Our focus is on cultivating fundamental musical concepts like rhythm, pitch awareness, and a general love for music in a stimulating group environment. This serves as a wonderful preparatory step for future instrumental study, laying a strong groundwork for a child's musical journey.
Building on these early foundations, the Southern Miss Suzuki Strings Program is deeply rooted in the philosophy of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. We believe that every child can learn to play a musical instrument—just as they learn to speak—through encouragement, dedicated parental support, and consistent daily exposure to music. Our program provides a nurturing and engaging environment for children and young adults to develop their instrumental skills (violin, viola, cello), fostering discipline, concentration, and a lifelong love for music through a proven methodology of private lessons, group classes, and repertoire mastery.
As part of the distinguished Southern Miss School of Music, all our students benefit from world-class instruction and facilities, immersing them in a vibrant musical community.
Our Programs
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
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
Meet Our Administration
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Dr. Hsiaopei Lee
Co-director, Suzuki Strings Full Profile -
Dr. Borislava Iltcheva
Co-director, Suzuki Strings 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.