Are we accomplishing our goal?

In the teacher training course Every Child Can! on the Suzuki philosophy of learning, we discuss the importance of the Suzuki triangle of student-parent-teacher in the learning experience.  In the discussion, it is important to note that the perspectives of each person can affect the music learning journey. And so we ask, "What is the goal of the student?  What is the goal of the parent? And what is the goal of the teacher?" In general, we think that the student wants to have fun while learning to play a musical instrument.  The parent wants the child to be happy, and may also appreciate the discipline of learning a musical instrument and the growth that this can bring to their child.  The teacher's goal might be thought of as desiring to have students who play well--which is true--but there is also a deeper goal: to see their student grow as a person, feel a sense of accomplishment, and gain confidence in their own abilities.  We call this teaching the "whole person." 

Dr. Suzuki said, "“Teaching music is not my main purpose. I want to make good citizens, noble human beings. If a child hears fine music, and learns to play it himself, he develops sensitivity, discipline and endurance."

Likewise, the Suzuki School of Newton has a goal. We wish to nurture our students to become noble hearted human beings who can be our future leaders with sensitivity, discipline and endurance.  We want our students to be creative individuals who share a love of learning and a love of music. But most of all, we desire our students to be sensitive individuals. In this difficult world situation, we must all develop empathy towards one another as many struggle emotionally, financially and spiritually. We aspire that our students can be nurturing individuals and create a positive environment for others in the spirit of Dr.Suzuki's educational philosophy. 

I believe we are accomplishing this goal through the strength of our outstanding teachers, the commitment of the parents, and the resilience of our students. The Suzuki journey is a long one.   Many years from now we will look back and see these three years of pandemic as a mere blip on the timeline of our lives.  Let us all work together towards our true goal.