CAS UAS in Music Pedagogy Suzuki Method

The Suzuki Method - a method that promises success

The interest in an optimal early support of children is increasing more and more in the educational landscape. In the instrumental field, too, it has been recognised that starting with music lessons in early childhoold holds great potential.

The Suzuki method has been used worldwide for decades and has been very successful. Many renowned soloists have started with this method: from Hilary Hahn to Vilde Frange to Julia Fischer. And many orchestra and amateur musicians also started their careers with Suzuki lessons and thus discovered their love of music.

Agathe Jerie - experienced lecturer in the training of Suzuki teachers and director of the International Children's Music School - leads the programme 

The so-called mother tongue method strengthens every child

The aim of this pedagogical approach, the so-called "mother tongue method", is to strengthen each child in its personality development by means of instrumental lessons and thus to support its development in an optimal way. In this context, the early start from the age of three is very favourable, as children make rapid progress at this time through imitative learning. Early childhood teaching builds on this kind of learning. It must be adapted to the developmental stage, the abilities and the special physiology of young children and requires well thought-out special didactics, which the students acquire in this degree programme.

To whom is this degree addressed?

Musicians with an interest in early childhood development and a violin (or viola) diploma with a university degree or equivalent qualification in performance or pedagogy. Professional teaching experience desirable but not required.

Teaching language

The courses in Interlaken (modules 1 and 2) are partly held in English. Good listening comprehension is sufficient for participation. Please indicate your language skills when registering. The other courses are held in German.

Admission requirements and registration

Registration is made by filling out the registration form and enclosing copies of your degrees and a short CV. Instead of an audition, please submit at the same time a short video/link of a piece you have played on the violin/viola (max. 5 min). The level must correspond to that of a Bachelor's degree in the main subject violin/viola.

The admission committee decides on admission.
The minimum number of participants is 3 students.

Admission deadline: 1 July 2024.

Degree

Certificate of Advanced Studies Kalaidos UAS in Music Pedagogy Suzuki Method

Information on fees

The entire course costs CHF 3'750. Only modules 1 and 2 cost CHF 1'700.

Additional costs:

• Participants must purchase the books "Education is Love" by S. Suzuki, "The First 10 Steps to Teaching" (also available in Interlaken) and "Beyond the Music Lessons" by Christine E. Goodner.
• Participants pay for their own accommodation and meals.

Dates

Interlaken 3-10 August, as part of the international Summer School 
followed by 5 weekend courses and 1 day of exam preparation, dates to be agreed with the students. After consultation with the students, it is also possible to teach two more blocks (at the beginning of January and in February).

Admission requirements