In a recent conversation, San-yi Lin and I were reminiscing about how we could have families mingle and gather at our concerts and graduations. Our events were followed by receptions. We think about how much we have lost over these past two years of pandemic.Luckily for us, things are looking better as symptoms are more mild. Nevertheless, Suzuki School of Newton is looking to reconnect our families in safe ways. How can we best reconnect our families and our students together? How can we overcome the new "isolating" habits that have formed over the two and a half years of pandemic and social distancing.

One good way to reconnect is by meals together or social and family gatherings...but these are still not widely safe for all especially young children who are un-vaccinated and at risk. Even travel has its own risks. I believe a great way for us to connect is through music! If it is by our in person Solo Recitals on May 14 and 15, our Virtual online events (see our upcoming Virtual solo recital on May 22nd), or our live streaming of solo recitals or faculty concerts, we are connecting to each other through music.

The concept of connection is an important feature of the Suzuki pedagogy through our group classes. Dr. Suzuki knew, that in post-war Japan, making music together would bring out the humanity and feelings that had been crushed during the WW II. Making music together is a primary experience that reawakens our souls and inner feelings in a positive way. Since it is difficult to have the self-discipline to practice every day, our weekly group classes create connection among our students. Similar to finding a friend to share a daily run or a friend who will diet with you, group classes are so that our students can practice and play music together. They are not alone but together in the process of learning.

We will soon have warmer weather and a return to many outdoor music and community events. Please join us! Come together and celebrate what is our humanity and our Suzuki School spirit! On Saturday, May 7th from 2 pm to 6 pm, Suzuki School is hosting a Multicultural Festival of music, dance, and visual arts. The Suzuki Preschool will display their artwork, and the Newton Art Association will have its final month of its show "Music Can Change the World". Come enjoy a meaningful moment and a connection with our neighbors and our community. Come and relax....

Another upcoming outdoor event will be our students' participation in Waban Village Day on Sunday, May 22nd at 11am. This early concert is right after the Waban Fun Run, a 5K "race" for all ages! Check this out here: https://wabanimprovement.org/

Building a community takes some effort because one must seek it out. There are some who find this natural and easy to do. For others, it is uncomfortable, a challenge, or even a mysterious concept. Some people naturally connect and others must learn how to do it. As in the true Suzuki philosophy, anything can be learned by taking small steps, repeating them over and over, and building the skill until it becomes more effortless and natural. Children learn by example, and so we as adults must lead the way.

We must make time to connect and to expand our views of the world. If we want equity in our world and want to celebrate diversity, we must consciously take action. If we want our children to learn to connect to our diverse, global community then we, too, must model this behavior.

Please join us for our Young People's MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL on Saturday, May 7th from 2 pm to 6 pm. Let's connect!