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!

There’s no such thing as starting too young or too late!

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.

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.

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 13, 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.