How it works in our program
OPSA is a music school offering a comprehensive violin program. At least one parent (the same parent each time) must be present at each session. The Suzuki parent will learn the basics of the violin with their child and does not need to know anything about music prior to enrollment. A willingness to learn and the time to dedicate to practicing everyday are the only requirements for the program.
OPSA students attend a private lesson and a group lesson each week. A portion of each group lesson is dedicated to music theory. A parent’s participation is required.
The beginning student will be expected to practice directly with their parent for approximately 30 minutes a day. By the second year of study, this daily amount of practice will increase to 1 hour.
All students are expected to demonstrate a full commitment to their studies through daily home practice and participation in group lessons and recitals. Many students also participate in ensembles and orchestras in the schools and throughout our region, and attend events, workshops and institutes provided by the larger Suzuki community.
Group Lessons
Group Lessons are an integral part of musical education. Playing with others is not only one of the greatest joys of music, but it is also a very motivating activity. Students come to group lessons excited to see one another. Parents also find it helpful to meet with their fellow Suzuki parents.
Group lessons provide an opportunity to learn how to behave in a group setting, how to watch and follow a leader, how to play with other musicians, how to rehearse and perform with others; it’s a chance to practice old skills and strengthen the newer ones. The benefits are endless.
Oak Park String Academy
Oak Park Violin Lessons
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Cello Lessons 60304
About
The Oak Park String Academy was founded by violinist Meg Lanfear in 2005. It has quickly become a program known for the quality of training its students receive. Students attending OPSA receive awards and accolades throughout their studies for the hard work they do everyday as they seek to master their craft. The secret to success is the work between the Suzuki Triangle: Parent-Teacher-Child.
OPSA is a creative blend of Suzuki philosophy and traditional string pedagogy. Suzuki philosophy embraces the idea that all children are born with musical ability that can be nurtured at an early age through their environment, listening, imitation, and by working closely with the parent at home. Traditional string pedagogy enhances Suzuki philosophy by furthering the development of technique and musicianship through scales, etudes, music reading and a variety of repertoire.
Private Lessons
Private Lessons are held weekly with your teacher. Scheduling is coordinated between both the teachers and families availability. Parents and students attend each lesson together. Dr. Suzuki believed that the parent is the most important teacher for the child. In each lesson, the teacher works with the child so as to educate the parents on what to do with the child at home during the daily practice sessions.
The most successful Suzuki families are the ones who commit to creating the time in their schedules for daily practice and listening, as well as focused weekly lessons and group classes.
Is our program a good fit for you?
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Are you excited about the opportunities you see for your child and yourself in this program?
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Are you, or are you willing to become, disciplined and organized in your home schedule to allow for 30-45 minutes initially (in possibly 2 or 3 short practices) and later increasing the daily work with your child in practice?
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Will your child be able to function co-operatively in group class?
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Will you create a fertile musical environment by playing the Suzuki Violin School CD and other fine classical music daily at home or when in the car?
If you can affirm the above, we will make a good partnership together to support your child’s development. Having considered the above carefully, learn how to apply here.
