NZSJ Volume 1 No.1 May/April 1990
Editorial – Alix Macartney: The editor introduces the first issue of the newly formalized journal for the New Zealand Suzuki Institute. She reflects on her own growth from attending a summer camp and emphasizes the need for consistent contributions from members, especially for letters, branch news, and parents’ insights.
President’s Report – Donald A. Carter: The president outlines the significant growth and achievements of the New Zealand Suzuki Institute, which now has fully operational branches across the country. He highlights the importance of membership and financial support for the institute’s continued success in supporting Suzuki education.
Treasurer’s Report – Peter Macartney: The treasurer provides a financial summary for 1988-1989, explaining how GST obligations affected their finances and clarifying various expense and revenue items, especially around events, newsletters, and assets.
- Auckland: The branch discusses teacher developments, fundraising efforts, and the library for Suzuki members. There are updates on busking and performances that raised funds for Greenpeace.
- Hamilton: The branch recounts its end-of-year concert and social gatherings. It announces a parent orientation evening and looks forward to a busy year.
- South Island: The branch recaps its summer camp with overseas tutors and looks ahead to piano and violin workshops for regional students and teachers.
- Wellington: Updates include plans for teacher meetings, a conference at Wellington College of Education, and a profile of branch chairperson Stephen Coward.
Letters to the Editor: Members share their gratitude for the newsletter, describe their experiences at the Suzuki camps, and express a desire to keep in touch with the institute’s activities despite geographical distance.
- Graduation Tapes – Josephine Fluhler and Val Thorburn: The article explains the process for Suzuki students submitting tapes to Japan for graduation certification. It underscores the importance of quality and preparation for the tapes, which are reviewed by both local and Japanese listeners, including Dr. Suzuki himself.
- Miss Pushover: A Profile on Professor M. Aber: A profile of Professor Margery Aber, a respected Suzuki teacher from Wisconsin who recently taught at New Zealand’s summer camps. Known for her fun teaching style and dedication to Suzuki’s philosophy, Aber emphasizes the importance of confidence and enjoyment in learning music.
The Cello Column – Alix Macartney: This column explores the beauty of the cello, inspired by Julian Lloyd Webber’s album and book “Travels With My Cello.” It discusses Webber’s career, his influence on cello music, and recommends his work to readers.
The Piano Column – Gillian Bibby: Bibby advocates for using the “International System of Notation” (whole notes, half notes, etc.) over traditional British terms (semibreves, crotchets). She explains the history and advantages of the simpler, more intuitive system, particularly for young children learning music.
The Violin Column – Phillipa Lees: This instructional piece covers techniques for teaching Vivaldi’s Concerto in A Minor, 3rd movement, in a group lesson. Lees emphasizes proper bowing, intonation, and phrasing, and gives step-by-step guidance to help students play in unison.
The Suzuki Parent in the Lesson – Sophie Hartigan: Hartigan advises Suzuki parents on maintaining a supportive but silent role during lessons, allowing the teacher to guide the child. She stresses the importance of note-taking for home practice and reminds parents to avoid giving additional instructions during the lesson.
Book Review – Stories of Composers for Young Musicians – Ruth Ormond: Ormond reviews two books by Catherine Wolff Kendall, which contain biographies of famous composers. Suitable for young readers, these books offer short, engaging stories about the lives and works of classical composers, including anecdotes and historical details.
Conference Update: The update provides logistical information about the 1990 National Conference in Wellington. It outlines plans for workshops and teacher training with renowned Suzuki and non-Suzuki instructors, with a focus on building community among students and teachers.
Children’s Pages: This section features stories and reflections from young Suzuki students, sharing their experiences with violin camps, concerts, and holiday performances. Highlights include busking for Greenpeace and participating in Auckland’s Farmer’s Parade.
Camps: The article recounts the enriching experiences at recent Suzuki music camps across New Zealand, where students learned from both local and international tutors. Students enjoyed playing in groups, practicing technique, and participating in cultural activities.
Forum: The Forum pages cover executive meeting highlights, new accreditations for Suzuki teachers, conference plans, and essential updates for NZSI members.
