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Illustrations
by Karen Zethmayr
We emphasize stretch and release in the beginning, because when everything is new, it's easy to get cramped and uncomfortable. Stretch and release will be just as important, however, in Book Six and beyond as it is now. Violin and viola players must hold the instrument with head and shoulders, the very places where tension can build up and give us serious problems at any age.
As you hang in there with your child, take advantage of the stretch and release times during each practice session to enjoy letting go of your own muscle cramps, reveling with your child over each tiny stepping stone crossed. Your joy will transfer, and the rhythm of the practice session will be more user friendly.
When I first started using Suzuki's approach I was so impressed with the importance of position (hands, feet, head, shoulders, what doesn't have to be just so?) that it took me a long time to realize that movement is even more important. Position is a point through which you move, and movement needs freedom and flow.
Even when we're working on fussy little smallmotor issues like left hand finger flexibility, doing these games away from the instrument is an opportunity to let go of those neck muscles. Nothing like big arm circles as a transition both to and from the violin. I have added a midi file of One Little Elephant Went Out to Play, since some folks pointed out that it's not familiar to everyone. Thanks for the reminder.
If you would like to receive notification as new Suzuki resources are added to this site, you can send an email to grandma@grandmaskite.com. Your email will not be sold, shared, traded, or used for any other purpose than that which you requested.
For more information on the Monroe Street Fine Arts Center Suzuki program, see msfac.org/ or email grandma@grandmaskite.com.
Suzuki
is
Hands On
Education
•Parent
Letter Topics
Bow hold:
•Pencil
exercises I
•Pencil
exercises II
Left
hand strength and flexibility:
•1
Little Elephant
•4
Little Elephants Jumping on a Web
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Smallmotor "pick up" game
Position in Motion:
•"Home
built" violins with activities
Reading readiness:
"Who Ran Away?"
"Twinkle Rhythm Flash Cards"
Supplementary Music and Midis
Twinkle Rag
Daisy Daisy
Daisy sheet music
Email
Karen Zethmayr grandma@grandmaskite.com
• Teaching Resume • Design
Resume
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