NZ Suzuki Journal Summer 1999 – My Impressions of the Suzuki World Conference by Frances Tristam
Having attended the Suzuki World Conference in Matsumoto, Japan, I returned home inspired by the amazing experience. This was my first visit to Japan, and I was both excited and nervous about what lay ahead. Fortunately, my nervousness was soon dispelled by the warmth and friendliness of the Japanese people. Everywhere we went, people were so polite and eager to help, and despite the language barrier, we never felt lost or confused.
The conference was held in Matsumoto, a city nestled in the beautiful Japanese Alps. It is also the home of Dr. Suzuki’s Talent Education Institute. The city has a strong connection to the Suzuki Method, and you can feel the presence of Dr. Suzuki’s philosophy everywhere. The streets were filled with musicians, young and old, from all around the world, and it was wonderful to see so many people gathered together in the name of music education.
The concert performances were the highlight of the conference. There were concerts every day, and each one was more impressive than the last. The level of musicianship displayed by the students, some as young as five years old, was truly awe-inspiring. They played with such precision, passion, and grace that it was hard to believe these were children. The dedication and hard work put in by both the students and their teachers was evident in every performance.
In addition to the concerts, I attended several masterclasses and workshops. These provided valuable insights into the Suzuki teaching method. One session that particularly stood out was a masterclass led by a Japanese violin teacher. Watching her work with the children, I could see how the Suzuki Method encourages students to listen carefully, learn by imitation, and develop strong technical skills from a young age. It was fascinating to observe the interaction between teacher and student, and I came away with many new ideas to incorporate into my own teaching.
Another memorable aspect of the conference was the sense of community. I met so many wonderful people, from fellow teachers to parents and students, all united by a common goal: to bring out the best in children through music. It was incredibly motivating to be part of such a large and passionate group of educators and musicians.
Visiting the Suzuki Museum was another highlight of the trip. The museum houses many of Dr. Suzuki’s personal belongings, as well as historical documents and photos that chronicle the development of the Suzuki Method. It was a moving experience to walk through the museum and reflect on the life and legacy of this remarkable man who dedicated his life to helping children discover the joy of music.
Overall, attending the Suzuki World Conference in Matsumoto was an unforgettable experience. It reminded me of the power of music to bring people together, and it deepened my understanding and appreciation of the Suzuki philosophy. I returned home with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to continuing Dr. Suzuki’s mission of nurturing young hearts through music.
Frances Tristam