ABOUT BUFFALO SUZUKI STRINGS
"To encourage a noble heart through music" ~ Shinichi Suzuki
The mission of the Buffalo Suzuki Strings is to teach children about music in a
manner consistent with the philosophy and pedagogy developed by Dr. Shinichi
Suzuki. The BSS music education program is patterned after Dr. Suzuki’s
philosophy that any child can learn to play an instrument when the
environment surrounding the child is supportive in the most positive way.
BSS is dedicated to instilling in every student, beginning at an early age, the
pursuit of excellence through a strong partnership of parents, teachers,
students and the community. Supported by the belief that excellence in early
musical training can lead children to happy, productive adulthoods, it is our
goal to produce noble human beings through the beauty of music.
The study of a musical instrument in our program is enhanced by the
relationship of the student, teacher, and parent, called the "Suzuki
Triangle." The parent attends lessons with the student, practices daily
with the student, and listens to music with the student, both through
recordings and live performances. Listening to music and attending
concerts is beneficial in helping children to learn the language of music.
Private lessons are held on a weekly basis, with group classes occurring
twice a month during the regular school year. Private lessons lengths
may be 30, 45, or 60 minutes, depending on the age and playing level of
the student. In group classes, the students play their common repertoire
together, learn new music, and build their musicianship skills by
playing together. BSS also has a comprehensive curriculum of music
reading clases.
Community concerts are performed throughout the year at various venues,
including hospitals, community centers and public parks. The BSS
advanced ensemble also participates in a yearly professional performance with the
Ars Nova Chamber Musicians in the Viva Vivaldi Festival each November, as well
as various community and social events.
BSS is dedicated to promoting Dr. Suzuki’s goal of “World Harmony Through
Music.” This ideal is supported through BSS tours around the globe. We believe
we can promote peace, understanding and friendship among the people of the world
by spreading the universal language of music.
Through excellence in environment and musical training, BSS endeavors to guide
students to a better adulthood as a result of exceptional training in childhood.
