Student Resources
Tuning
For a free online tuner, go here.
To order a good metronome/tuner combination available at Amazon, click here.
Kaila's Practice Guides
Note: Requires Adobe Reader. Download a free version here.
Practice Basics (PDF)
The Three Steps of Successful Practice (PDF)
Recommended Articles Online
An excellent article written by a Suzuki parent.
Scientific American: The Expert Mind [PSYCHOLOGY AND BRAIN SCIENCE]
Studies of the mental processes of chess grandmasters have revealed clues to how people become experts in other fields as well.
The New York Times: How to Grow a Super-Athlete
What is talent? Can it be learned, and if so, how?
Slow Practice for String Players
Hilary Hahn on what it means to practice slowly. (Intermediate to advanced)
Whipping up a Batch of Tasty Practice Sessions
Rachel Barton Pine on organizing practice sessions. (Intermediate to advanced)
Getting the Most from Your Competition Experience
Rachel Barton Pine's article on competitions is also excellent advice on how to prepare for auditions and performances. (Intermediate to advanced)
Recommended Books
Teaching from the Balance Pointby Edward Kreitman
This invaluable resource for students and teachers is clearly and
expertly written. The book is my top choice for those interested in
learning more about either the Suzuki method or violin study. It is also
available for purchase at
Johnson Strings.
Helping Parents Practice: Ideas for Making it Easier
by Edmund Sprunger
Written by a child psychotherapist and Suzuki violin teacher. An in-depth guide to practicing with young children.
How to Get Your Child to Practice . . . Without Resorting to Violence
by Cynthia Richards
A light-hearted and informative book.
Nurtured by Love: The Classic Approach to Talent Education
by Shinichi Suzuki
Dr. Suzuki explains the philosophy and principles of his teaching method.
Practicing for Artistic Success
by Burton Kaplan
A book directed toward adult musicians that clearly lays out effective strategies for successful practice and performance. [Top]