Why should I take Suzuki teacher training?
I get it. Either you are already a competent cello player or have already completed formal study in cello performance, you wonder why you should go through the trouble to take a Suzuki teacher training course. I had the exact same doubt more than 20 years ago. The thing is, even when we know how to play our instruments well after studying with multiple great teachers, to deliver that bag of knowledge and skills to help a student of any age to understand it is a completely different set of skills. Suzuki teacher training will be the most wonderful starting point to learn all that set of skills. I would even argue that this set of skills for teaching is an art form itself. This course is filled with resources, knowledge, and tactics, not only for beginner or transfer cello students, but also for communicating with parents and establishing a strong studio. I learned so much from taking it many years ago the first time with Alice Vierra, that I had to take it again later with Dr. Tanya Carey.
What are other benefits besides learning to teach better?
To start the Suzuki cello teacher training, you must become a SAA (Suzuki Association of the Americas) member. SAA membership is invaluable to any music teachers seeking continuing education post college.
Benefit #1- Networking- The membership includes many wonderful benefits including world-wide job listing, networking and teacher supporting opportunities. I also made several wonderful friends all over the States and across the globe that expanded my connection to share and learn teaching ideas and support. Check out SAA membership benefits HERE.
Benefit #2- Mentoring- I have met like-minded colleagues and mentor through SAA events over the years.
Benefit #3- Continuing education
Benefit #4- Career development opportunities
Benefit #5- Member Directory: where prospective students could find your listing based on the location.
Eligibility to take a Suzuki teacher training course-
1. Current SAA membership
2. Every Child Can course completed
3. Audition accepted: All audition materials must be submitted no later than 14 days before the start of the course.The Audition Fee is ($65 USD).
Go to the Teacher audition guide Link HERE for more information.
Course Requirement-
Due to the intensive curriculum and extensive information covered, there are 28 required lecture hours and 15 required observation hours, so I suggest that participants plan ahead and schedule around it carefully to avoid getting worn out. The Suzuki Association of the Americas requires 100% attendance for this course to recognized as completed. (Update: I have given SIX Book 1 teacher courses online since October, 2020. Many more ideas for conveying teaching knowledge and lesson management have been developed.)
Schedule:
Sunday morning 9:00am -12:45pm CDT ofSunday morning 8:30-12:15 CDT on February 25, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, April 7, 14
Final day to complete all work- April 21, 2024
$750
Registration: Click HERE
Bio
Dr. Shu-Yi Scott, originally from Taipei, Taiwan, has given master classes, seminars and performances in the States, Taipei, Shanghai, Mexico, and Europe. Dr. Shu-Yi Scott was awarded the Certificate of Achievement through the Suzuki Association of the Americas in 2015 and Suzuki cello teacher trainer in 2019. Dr. Scott holds a MM in cello performance from Penn State under Dr. Kim Cook and DMA in cello performance from the University of Texas at Austin under renowned pedagogue Ms. Phyllis Young. Teaching beginning students from the age of 3 to advanced high school cellists, her expertise and patience excels students from all musical backgrounds. She uses her knowledge of child development to creatively target the needs of her students, keeping them motivated and growing. Her private lessons, Multi-Level-Group class offerings, and parent education nights help to foster a community of lifelong musicians. Her hobbies include gardening, sourdough baking , learning Japanese and French, and world travel.