The NZSI Teacher Training Programme is designed for practising teachers and advanced musicians 18 years and over interested in becoming Suzuki teachers. Currently, in New Zealand, Suzuki teacher training is available in cello, flute, guitar, piano and violin.
The training programme covers 4 Levels and each level consists of three units of training. Most units correspond to the Suzuki repertoire book to which it refers. There is an assessment at the end of each Level of training. Upon commencing training, teachers are eligible for inclusion on the NZSI Teacher Registry.
Each unit consists of a minimum of 16 hours of lectures, discussions, training and teaching practice plus 8 hours of observation of specified Suzuki teaching, which must be fully documented by the trainee. The importance and timing of the teaching of reading, plus other aspects of musicianship will also be an integral part of the training programme. Additional written work, reading and an increasing performance ability is required at each Level.
NZSI Teacher Trainers recommend:
- All teachers attend the National Teachers Conferences.
- Trainee teachers attend a minimum of one workshop or conference for each Level of training.
In some cases, NZSI Teacher Trainers will also recommend that a trainee teacher takes private lessons from a recognized teacher during the training period.
Instrument |
Entry level requirements |
Policy document |
| Cello | Grade 8 + or alternatively the equivalent of Suzuki Cello Book Eight | Cello Teacher Training Programme |
| Flute | Grade 8 + or alternatively the equivalent of Suzuki Flute Book Seven | Flute Teacher Training Programme |
| Guitar | Grade 8 + or alternatively the equivalent of Suzuki Guitar Book Seven | Guitar Teacher Training Programme |
| Piano | Grade 8 + or alternatively the equivalent of Suzuki Piano Book Seven | Piano Teacher Training Programme |
| Violin | Grade 8 + or alternatively the equivalent of Suzuki Violin Book Seven | Violin Teacher Training Programme |
How to enrol in the NZSI Teacher Training Programme
1A. Complete the NZSI Teacher Training Enrollment Form (PDF) .
1B. Provide a short curriculum vitae detailing musical training and experience and other relevant educational or teaching experience and activities.
1C. Payment of a registration fee of $25.00 (non-refundable) is required. Your cheque should be made payable to NZSI OR Direct Deposit: NZSI 03 0259 0253 226 00 Reference ‘Your surname’ ‘TT app fee’
Send ALL of the above to:
NZSI Director of Teacher Training
Trudi Miles
92 Burbush Road
RD8
Hamilton 3288
2. Read Nurtured by Love by Shinichi Suzuki, Exposition Press.
3. Upon receipt of your curriculum vitae, application form and registration fee, you can expect to be interviewed by the NZSI Director of Teacher Training either by telephone or in person.
4. You will be required to provide a video audition tape of your most recent playing. Details of what will be required on the audition tape will be advised during the interview.
When you have completed the enrolment process including the audition, you will be notified of training opportunities as they arise. At the commencement of your training you will be required to become a Teacher Member of the NZSI.