Understanding the Suzuki Method’s Character Development Focus

by Milly Rout 

An excerpt from the research of Milly Rout, published with the University of Auckland, 2025.

Dr Shinichi Suzuki created his violin teaching method not only to develop musical ability, but fundamentally to nurture children of fine character. His philosophy centres on “character first, ability second,” emphasising traits such as perseverance, sensitivity, diligence, time management, and kindness as key outcomes of Suzuki music education.

How Parents Influence Character Development in Suzuki Learning

1. Be Actively Involved and Present
   • Attend all lessons and group classes with your child to understand the learning process and show your support.
   • Early on, sit with your child during practice sessions, offering encouragement and gentle guidance without dominating.
   • Gradually adjust your level of involvement as your child matures, respecting their need for independence while remaining supportive.

2. Create a Positive Home Environment for Music
   • Foster an environment where classical or instrumental music is listened to regularly, encouraging an appreciation of beauty and sensitivity to music.
   • Make practice a natural and regular part of daily life, reinforcing the habit rather than making it a chore.

3. Model Good Character and Patience
   • Demonstrate traits such as patience, respect, and perseverance in your own behaviour. Children learn by imitation, and seeing you embody these values will influence their character.
   • Show respect for your child’s pace and learning style, allowing them to “be where they’re at” rather than pushing too hard.

4. Support Time Management and Goal Setting
   • Help your child balance music practice with other activities and schoolwork by working together to plan their schedule.
   • Use calendars or planning tools to map out practice times, performances, exams, and other commitments.
   • Encourage breaking down large tasks into manageable steps, building perseverance and self-discipline.

5. Encourage Intrinsic Motivation and Ownership
   • While initially guiding practice, help your child develop their own motivation to continue learning.
   • Empower your child by listening to their input, involving them in decisions about practice routines or repertoire choices as they grow older.

6. Foster Long-Term, Trusting Relationships
   • Engage positively with your child’s Suzuki teacher and other parents in the community to build a supportive network.
   • These enduring relationships promote a secure emotional base, which supports your child’s confidence and character development.

7. Balance Involvement Without Enmeshment
   • Stay involved but avoid over-involvement or “living through your child,” which can hinder their independence and cause stress.
   • Be sensitive to your child’s verbal and non-verbal cues about their need for space, especially during adolescence.

8. Celebrate Progress and Foster Sensitivity
   • Recognise and affirm your child’s achievements, no matter how small, reinforcing a positive learning experience.
   • Encourage your child to connect emotionally with the music, which deepens their sensitivity and expression both musically and socially.

Additional Tips for Parents

• Practice Patience and Flexibility: Learning an instrument is challenging and requires time. Support your child through frustrations and plateaus with understanding.
• Make Music Fun: Integrate playfulness and joy into practice sessions to keep your child engaged and motivated.
• Attend Group Classes and Performances: Encourage your child’s participation in group learning and community events to build social skills and a sense of belonging.
• Communicate Openly: Maintain open dialogue with your child about their experiences, struggles, and successes in music lessons.
• Be a Role Model of Lifelong Learning: Show your own willingness to learn and grow, which inspires your child to value education and character development.

By actively supporting your child through involvement, modelling positive character traits, fostering intrinsic motivation, and creating a nurturing environment, you can help maximise the benefits of Suzuki lessons not only in musical skills but also in lifelong character development. This approach aligns with Suzuki’s vision of nurturing children with “a beautiful heart” and fine character through music education.

Full thesis available from the University of Auckland: https://hdl.handle.net/2292/72485