Studio of Sydney Johnson
Suzuki Violin and Viola School in Lincoln Park
Welcome to my studio!
I am a violin and viola teacher of ten years based in Lincoln Park. I offer private and group lessons to students ages 3 and up, and am passionate about working with young musicians and their families.
I have taught and developed violin programs in schools across Chicago, and am dedicated to providing high-quality and accessible music education through community partnerships, in addition to my Lincoln Park studio space.
I work with young students who are just learning to hold the instrument, intermediate musicians preparing for Suzuki book graduations, teenagers preparing for Chicago Youth Symphony auditions, adult students looking to connect with their inner musician, and everything in between.
My work is inspired by the teaching of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. As a certified instructor with the Suzuki Association of the Americas, I use the Suzuki approach as a framework to guide students in a developmentally appropriate way to promote lifelong musicianship.
While I employ principles of Suzuki teaching in my work, I ultimately seek to nurture an authentic sense of expression, and foster personal and musical growth. The Suzuki expression “Every Child Can” guides my teaching, and I prioritize building community with students and their families to see them flourish.
Upcoming Events
100 Days of Practice Challenge!
Let’s kick off the year with strong practice habits! Current private lesson students are automatically registered to participate in the 100 Days of Practice Challenge, which officially begins January 15. Student who complete the challenge will be recognized at the spring recital and receive an invitation to the 100 Day of Practice Club ice cream party!
Students in partner schools or Smiling Strings may register on January 15, and must register by February 4 to complete all 100 days by May 15!
What My Students Say
“Sydney is great with my six year old daughter. She teaches introductory essentials in a way that is easy for a young learner to relate to and understand.”
Ted
“Ms. Sydney is a terrific teacher to my daughter. She has been very patient in helping her grow as a violinist. We love having lessons with her!”
Leah
“She’s very friendly, my son loves his new teacher! Looking forward to more lessons with her.”
Rithwik
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do lessons cost?
I offer 30, 45, and 60 minute lessons at my private studio at varying rates. Learn more about my pricing policy here.
Do I need to bring my own instrument?
Yes. I do not provide student instruments, and require all students to have their own instrument prior to beginning lessons along with necessary instrument accessories such as rosin, a wipe to clean the instrument with after each use, and a sponge or shoulder rest. I have a list of recommended instrument rental facilities in Chicago on my page, which you can view here.
I strongly advise against purchasing or renting an instrument from online retailers or boxed violins from non-music stores. These instruments are often missing pieces and there is no guarantee of quality or proper sizing.
I’m aware that many students already own a “family violin,” which may have been passed down from an older sibling or relative. These instruments can be great, but it is important to first check that the instrument is the proper size for your student.
If you have any questions about where you can rent a violin or what size your student needs, please reach out to me at sydney.suzuki.lessons@gmail.com!
Is my student too young/old to begin music lessons?
There’s no such thing as starting too young or too late! A common saying among Suzuki teachers is “never too old, and rarely too young to Twinkle!”
I have a wide range of experience as a teacher. I have taught early childhood violin lessons in preschools, beginning through advanced violin classes in grades K-12, and have worked with adult students as old as 70. I aim to offer an encouraging and supportive environment in each individualized private lesson to help all students achieve their musical potential.
What is the Suzuki method, and how is it different from other methods?
The Suzuki method, developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, uses the “mother tongue” approach to teach young students to play music in a way that mirrors the way they learn to speak as babies. This is done through daily listening, observation, repetition, and lots of encouragement! Students develop a finely tuned ear, enhance their technical abilities, and ultimately appreciate playing with a beautiful tone, before learning how to read music on a page.
Dr. Suzuki believed that musical talent is not innate, rather a skill that every child (and person) is capable of achieving through hard work and focused practice. This philosophy is summarized in the Suzuki saying “Every Child Can!” The idea that all students are capable of musical excellence when adequately supported is central to my teaching as a Suzuki teacher.
Do you only teach classical music through the Suzuki method?
My background as a teacher is in Suzuki methodology, and I use the Suzuki approach as a base to guide students through introductory essentials. However, I also prioritize giving students opportunities to explore their own musical interests by incorporating a variety of musical styles in private and group classes including jazz, fiddle, and pop.
What is the Suzuki triangle?
An essential element of Suzuki lessons is the “Suzuki triangle,” which refers to the triangular relationship between the student, teacher, and parent, or family member who brings the student to their lessons.
My job as the teacher is to provide individualized instruction based on the student’s needs, help the student and parent understand how to practice at home with specific feedback, and provide an encouraging and respectful environment for both the parent and student.
The parent’s job is to attend the lesson to take notes, understand the weekly practice assignments, asking questions if necessary, and encourage their child at home through daily practice sessions.
The student’s job is to complete their practice assignments, participate in lessons, and handle their instrument with care and respect.
A strong “Suzuki triangle” is especially impactful for young beginners, which is why I require parent/familial involvement in all lessons for students under the age of seven, however, I strongly encourage parental/familial attendance in lessons for students of all ages.
I believe the relationships built between teachers and families is the most powerful tool to develop well-rounded young musicians. It is my highest priority to have open communication with students and parents to nurture the highest potential in all students.
Do you teach adult students?
Yes! I work with students of all ages and levels. Feel free to fill out the new student registration form to get in touch with me (and schedule a FREE trial!) to discuss how I can help you achieve your musical goals!
How do I sign up for lessons?
Through the new student registration form, found here!
I still have questions, who can I contact?
Feel free to reach out to me directly at sydney.suzuki.lessons@gmail.com!
