Each summer, we are excited to send students and their families from our studios off to Suzuki Institutes around the country.

This year, we are thrilled that Ethan and Owen Uyemura, along with their mom Mitzi, will have the opportunity to the American Suzuki Institute in Stevens Point, WI after attending the Institute for their first time last summer.  Mitzi has even kindly offered to share about their experience with us all in the fall!

If you haven’t ever taken the chance to go to an Institute, you may be wondering exactly what goes on there.  Well, Suzuki Institutes:

• Are 1-2 week long intensive music camps that often take place on a college campus.
• Students and their families can stay in the college dorms, though some opt to stay in hotels close by the campus.
• Students attend daily classes that include: (1) a “master class” private lesson, where they and 2-3 other students their age and level each get individual time with a teacher and get to observe each others’ lessons, too; (2) a group technique class; (3) a group repertoire class; (4) orchestra and/or chamber classes for more advanced students.
• Each day, usually right after lunch and in the evening, there are student, faculty, and special performer recitals, so you get to hear tons of music and some really exceptional performances.
• There are also special classes on a wide variety of topics ranging from yoga for string players to care and maintenance of your instrument.
• Activities like hiking, kayaking, stand volleyball, etc. are organized, but there is also free time if families want to get away and explore local attractions.

If I were to summarize my own feelings, I’d say that there’s no place on earth quite like a Suzuki Institute.  You’re surrounded by people who want to learn morning to night, you’re surrounded by music, you’ll have some really exceptional experiences, and you’ll get away from the distractions and get to spend some truly special time with your family.   I can’t think of a more positive, energizing, fun thing to do every summer.  So, if you didn’t hop on the opportunity to attend and Institute this summer, be sure to keep it in mind for the next!