The choice between these two approaches centers mostly around the age of the student.

Suzuki Method (ages 3 and up)

Sometimes called the Mother Tongue Approach, the Suzuki Method is the creation of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. He recognized that Japanese children, at a very young age, learn a difficult language in a specific dialect by imitation and repetition. By listening to the parent, children learn to speak fluently and use language with ease - hence the term Mother Tongue Approach!

Studies show that children revel in absorbing coordination and learning complex concepts, math skills, verbal direction, and body awareness between ages three and seven. There is an incredible window of opportunity to give one's child an early start to successful learning at this time, and the Suzuki Method can help make the most of this uninhibited learning period.

The Suzuki Method emphasizes learning by ear and memorization, as opposed to traditional Western methods, and therefore it benefits the young student who isn't yet reading. Suzuki relies on listening skills and muscle memory by using rhythms like "Mississippi Hot Dog" and "Wish I Had a Motorcycle" to play versions of "Twinke Twinkle Little Star." Kids have fun and experience a great sense of accomplishment when they learn to play these pieces.

Traditional Method

If a child is seven years old or older and starting in a school program where one of the goals is orchestral playing, it probably makes sense to learn violin using the traiditonal method of reading notes, rather than learning by ear. We can use a hybrid of the two methods, but by emphasizing reading, scales, key and time signatures, and counting rhythms, children develop the skills to play written music by themselves or in a group setting.

The traditional method is an excellent way to learn, and equal success occurs with this model as with Suzuki.  Adults should undoubtedly start with the Traditional method, too, if their study is independent of a young Suzuki student.