by Cynthe Burbidge
Renowned Suzuki instructor Dr. Terry Durbin would say that a title like MTSA Workshop is “B-o-r-i-n-g!” It certainly doesn’t fully represent the incredible experience these young musicians experienced at the September all-day event this last month. “That was fun!” was heard by more than one parent by the end of the day.
MTSA puts on workshops for violinists each September, held at St. Cecilia Academy here in Nashville. The day is packed full of learning for parents and students alike, as highly known teachers are brought in from all over TN to offer their unique “pro-tips” to students of all levels of playing. Each group rotates to each teacher so that everyone gets an opportunity to learn “from the best!”
Even more than learning new techniques and strategies for playing, students are enriched by the experience of playing in community with their peers. Participation in the Suzuki community in such an engaging way reinvigorates the students’ motivation for their practice and learning.
Here are some unique take-aways from this years session:
- Dr. Terry Durbin cast an encouraging vision in the Parent Talk for protecting and promoting a positive relationship between the child and the violin. He also spoke of “varied and interleaving training” — being creative in the repetitions required of the student. His strongest contribution was simply modeling this approach as he engaged creatively with the students. The kids smiled and laughed the entire time they were under his tutelage.
- One focus from Kim Barrett was the value of posture and tone with her students. She offered the acronym WASP, representing the impact of the following on tone: Weight, Amount, Speed and Placement of the bow.
- Carol Dallinger promoted new methods for warm ups, such as the Finger Dances. She also gave excellent opportunities during her classes for increasing listening skills.
- Students in Tim Barett’s class experienced creative approaches to playing familiar pieces, with a focus on group engagement and musical dynamics.
The day ended with a spectacular play down — all the way from Book 7 pieces to PreTwinkles. Overall, the workshop inspired students in their playing and encouraged parents with renewed vision behind Suzuki learning. As Dr. Durbin expressed, music teaches so much more than skill. It nurtures empathy and the ability for us all to connect with just about anyone.
For more information on MTSA and their workshops and resources, please check out their website! https://middletnsuzuki.org/
