The Suzuki Method, developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki in the mid-20th century, has revolutionized music education, particularly in teaching young children how to play the violin. This holistic approach emphasizes not only musical skill development but also character building and parental involvement. Here are ten significant benefits of learning the violin through the Suzuki Method.

1.Early Start:

One of the key advantages of the Suzuki Method is its focus on starting children at a very young age, sometimes as early as three or four years old. This early exposure to music helps develop their auditory skills and lays a solid foundation for future musical endeavors.

2. Emphasis on Listening:

Suzuki violin students are taught to listen to recordings of the pieces they are learning repeatedly. This helps them internalize the music and develop a strong sense of pitch, rhythm, and phrasing, fostering a deep understanding of musical expression.

3. Repetition and Mastery:

The Suzuki Method advocates for repetitive practice of small, manageable sections of music until they are mastered. This approach instills patience, discipline, and perseverance in students as they work towards proficiency and mastery.

4. Parental Involvement:

Parents play a crucial role in the Suzuki Method, attending lessons with their child, taking notes, and actively participating in practice sessions at home. This creates a supportive learning environment and strengthens the bond between parent and child.

5. Suzuki Group Classes:

Suzuki students often participate in group classes where they play music together, learn from each other, and develop ensemble skills. These classes provide a sense of community and camaraderie, enhancing the overall learning experience.

6. Focus on Tone Production:

From the beginning, Suzuki students are taught to produce a beautiful tone on the violin. Through exercises and repertoire specifically chosen for tone development, students learn the importance of tone quality and how to control their bowing technique effectively.

7. Building Memory Skills:

Memorization is an integral part of the Suzuki Method, as students are encouraged to learn pieces by ear and play them from memory. This strengthens memory recall, concentration, and cognitive abilities, skills that extend beyond music into other areas of learning.

8. Performance Opportunities:

Suzuki students have ample opportunities to perform, whether in studio recitals, group concerts, or community events. Regular performance experiences help build confidence, stage presence, and the ability to communicate through music.

9. Flexible Learning Pace:

The Suzuki Method is adaptable to each student's individual pace of learning. Teachers tailor their approach to suit the needs and abilities of each child, ensuring that they progress comfortably and confidently.

10. Lifelong Love of Music:

Perhaps the most significant benefit of learning violin through the Suzuki Method is the cultivation of a lifelong love of music. By nurturing a positive and nurturing environment, Suzuki teachers inspire their students to appreciate and enjoy music for years to come.

From early start to lifelong love of music, the benefits of learning violin through the Suzuki Method extend far beyond the realm of music, shaping confident, disciplined, and musically literate individuals.

At CMC, we understand that choosing between different approaches to violin instruction, such as Suzuki method, can be a significant decision. If you need assistance with placement or have general inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact us. For more information, you can click here or reach us by phone at 617-519-9296. Our dedicated team is here to help you make the right choice, and we're excited to begin this musical journey with you.

Music has the power to inspire and transform lives, and learning to play the violin or viola is a journey that can be incredibly rewarding. At Cambridge Music Consortium (CMC) we pride ourselves on the exceptional quality and experience of our instructors. Our teachers are highly qualified and passionate about teaching and performing. They operate their own independent studios, each with their unique teaching methods and practices, making it a rich tapestry of learning experiences for students.

We're dedicated to helping you make the right choice between traditional violin and Suzuki violin, offering lessons for both violin and viola, as well as Suzuki violin and viola. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between these two approaches to help you make an informed decision.

Suzuki Violin and Viola

Suzuki violin and viola instruction are based on the philosophy of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, who believed that "every child can learn." Music is a language and Suzuki method instruction is based on how children learn to speak. Listening and learning by ear are an important component. CMC is pleased to offer Suzuki violin and viola lessons for those who are interested in this approach.

Suzuki instruction involves a nurturing and supportive environment, with parents actively participating in their child's musical education, this allows students to begin at a much younger age. Children can begin lessons as early as 4 years old. Private lessons, as well as group lessons and regular recitals are integral to the Suzuki method, as a way to solidify skills and promote a sense of community, support and motivation among students.

Traditional Violin and Viola

Traditional violin and viola instruction follows an individualized approach.

One of key distinctions between traditional instruction vs Suzuki instruction is that the the parent is usually not involved in the child’s study. Students work one-on-one with their instructors, allowing for a personalized repertoire and approach to their specific needs and goals. Most students starting tradition lessons will begin at a later age and because of this, note reading is usually introduced right from the beginning of instruction. Instructors can adapt their teaching styles to accommodate the unique learning pace and preferences of each student.

Choosing the Right Path

The decision between traditional violin and Suzuki violin ultimately depends on your goals, age, and learning style. Here are a few considerations to help you make an informed choice:

Age: Suzuki violin is particularly well-suited for young beginners, usually between the ages of 4 & 6, while traditional instruction usually begin a bit later.

Learning Style: Do you prefer one-on-one lessons with a personalized curriculum (traditional) or a more communal learning experience with group lessons (Suzuki)?

Parental Involvement: If you're a parent seeking to support your child's musical journey, Suzuki instruction might be a great fit.

Contact Us

At CMC, we understand that choosing between traditional and Suzuki violin instruction can be a significant decision. If you need help with placement or have general inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact us. You can click here for more information or reach us by phone at 617-519-9296. Our dedicated team is here to assist you in making the right choice, and we're excited to embark on this musical journey with you.

Music has the remarkable ability to touch our souls, evoke emotions, and create connections that transcend language barriers. Whether it's strumming a guitar, playing the piano, or singing with a choir, engaging in music lessons goes far beyond the mere act of producing harmonious sounds. In this blog, we will explore the myriad of benefits that music lessons offer and why everyone, regardless of age or skill level, can reap the rewards of this transformative experience.

Enhances Cognitive Abilities: Learning music has been shown to have a positive impact on cognitive development. Studies have revealed that music lessons can improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Musicians often exhibit enhanced spatial-temporal skills, which are crucial for mathematics and complex reasoning. Moreover, the mental discipline required to master an instrument fosters patience, perseverance, and self-discipline, qualities that can be applied to various aspects of life.

Boosts Academic Performance: Engaging in music lessons has been linked to improved academic performance. Numerous research studies have indicated a positive correlation between music education and enhanced language skills, reading comprehension, and overall academic achievement. The combination of rhythm, melody, and structure in music helps to develop language processing abilities, phonological awareness, and auditory discrimination, leading to stronger literacy skills.

Promotes Emotional Well-being: Music has the power to stir our emotions and has long been recognized for its therapeutic benefits. Playing an instrument or singing can serve as an emotional outlet, helping individuals express and process their feelings. It can reduce stress, anxiety, and depression while boosting self-esteem and confidence. Engaging in music lessons can provide a sense of accomplishment and joy, leading to increased overall happiness and well-being.

Enhances Social Skills: Music lessons offer a unique opportunity for collaboration and social interaction. Joining a band, orchestra, or choir allows individuals to connect with like-minded people, fostering a sense of community and teamwork. Through rehearsals and performances, musicians learn to listen, communicate, and synchronize their efforts with others, developing valuable interpersonal skills. Music lessons also provide a supportive environment that encourages constructive feedback, cooperation, and empathy.

Cultivates Creativity and Self-expression: Exploring music opens the door to boundless creativity. Learning an instrument encourages individuals to think outside the box, experiment with different sounds, and develop their unique musical style. It fosters imagination and the ability to express oneself authentically. Moreover, composing original music or improvising cultivates problem-solving skills and encourages individuals to take risks, leading to personal growth and self-discovery.

Enhances Coordination and Motor Skills: Playing an instrument requires precise movements and coordination between hands, fingers, and sometimes even feet. Regular music practice improves fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and dexterity. This enhanced physical coordination can have positive effects beyond music, such as improved athletic performance and better motor skills in daily activities.

Lifelong Learning and Enjoyment: Music is a lifelong journey of learning and growth. Regardless of age, music lessons offer an avenue for personal enrichment, intellectual stimulation, and continuous skill development. It is never too late to start learning music, and the journey itself brings a sense of fulfillment and joy. Music can become a lifelong companion, providing solace during difficult times and a source of happiness and inspiration.

The benefits of music lessons extend far beyond the realm of music itself. Engaging in music education enhances cognitive abilities, boosts academic performance, promotes emotional well-being, and cultivates social skills. It nurtures creativity, coordination, and self-expression, providing a platform for personal growth and lifelong learning. So, whether you're a parent considering music lessons for your child or an adult eager to explore a new hobby, the benefits a musical instrument can provide are limitless!

Cambridge Music Consortium is the perfect academy to get started on a new hobby, or fine tune your musical expertise. We are located on the corner of Broadway and Prospect Streets in Cambridge, MA. CMC is made up of a group of skilled and experienced music teachers and performers offering high quality music instruction for all ages and levels. Founded in 2013, CMC is dedicated to bringing excellence in music making to the entire Cambridge community and beyond. CMC's independent instructors offer lessons in violin, viola, cello, Suzuki violin & viola, piano, guitar, ukulele, banjo, voice, musical theater, popular song, clarinet, guitar, voice, music theory, and composition. For more information, visit our website www.cmclessons.com

• Masks are recommended in common areas.

• Instructors may require that masks are worn in their teaching studios.

• Masks are required at all CMC recitals and group events. Performers may remove their masks only while performing.

Vaccine Recommendations

• Vaccines and boosters are highly recommended for everyone.

• Vaccination sites may be found at https://vaxfinder.mass.gov.

• City of Cambridge updates on health and safety may be found at https://cambridgema.gov/covid19.

Hygiene Protocols

• Handwashing products and hand sanitizer are available throughout the space.

• Please wash hands before lessons.

• Sanitizing spray and paper towels are available in all rooms.

Covid Lesson Attendance Guidelines

• If you test positive for Covid-19 and have symptoms: STAY HOME for 5 days from when you tested positive. After the 5 day isolation, if there has been no fever for 24 hrs, please mask for an additional 5 days at all times when inside CMC.

• If you test positive and do not have symptoms: STAY HOME for 5 days from when you tested positive, and please mask for an additional 5 days. *If you develop symptoms within 10 days of when you tested positive, the isolation clock starts at day 0 of the symptoms onset.

• STAY HOME and take your lesson online if you or your child are ill.

• If students or caregivers show signs of illness during a lesson, the lesson will end early.

• If the teacher becomes ill during a lesson, they will suspend the lesson.

• Anyone showing signs of illness will be asked to leave.

Cleaning and Disinfecting

• All rooms, including the waiting area, contain an air purifier, which continuously clean the air with carbon HEPA filtering.

• Our HVAC has MERV 13 filtration and a UVC light antibacterial air purification system.

• Complete cleaning and sanitizing of the space will occur on a regular basis.

315 Broadway, Cambridge, MA

Must be fully vaccinated and wear a mask in building at all times when not playing

Baroque and Beyond 11:30-1:00 Fridays at CMC

Come and play renaissance and baroque music. We will mostly do in depth work while leaving a little room for sight reading. Open to recorders, flutes, oboes, violins, voices, harpsichord, lutes, cellos, viols etc.

Madrigal Feast 1:00-2:30 Fridays at CMC

We will play satisfying quartets of English Madrigals, Baroque arrangements and seasonal music. Cut time and meter changes will be introduced through renaissance music. A good ensemble to cut your teeth on and a perfect opportunity to get comfortable switching fingerings.

Performance Ensemble 6:30-8:00 Fridays at CMC

Emphasis will be on preparing performances. The ensemble playing will focus on learning to respond to each other’s articulations, phrasing and improvisations. Our repertoire extends from the Middle Ages through to contemporary music. We will also be playing on a matched set of renaissance instruments with historical fingerings. Audition only.

Click here to find out more.

With the easing of many of the existing Covid-19 restrictions and the increasing percentage of persons receiving vaccinations, more and more teachers and students are returning to in-person lessons at The Cambridge Music Consortium (CMC).

I am again sharing with you the improvements that I have made to the space to maximize the safety, comfort, and confidence of the CMC community. For updated guidelines for using CMC during Covid-19 please click here.

Upgrades to infrastructure at CMC include:

• Each room now has an air purifier, which will continuously clean the air with carbon HEPA filters.

• HVAC upgrades to air intake filtering.

• HVAC upgraded with UVC antibacterial air purification system.

• Furniture has been moved (and removed) to make social distancing easier.

• Six-foot distancing markers in all rooms to make social distancing easier for you and your students.

• Physical barriers for vocal and wind instrument lessons.

• Disinfectant spray (medical grade) is available in each room for disinfecting before and after each lesson.

• Paper towel dispensers are available in all rooms.

• Touchless soap dispensers.

• Touchless trash cans.

• Signage throughout reminding of social distancing and handwashing.

• Increased cleaning.

• Additional music stands

• Toilet seat covers

The CMC community, as so many others, has endured a terrible storm. I am happy however, to report that with our collective ability to pivot, show resilience, be inventive, and willingness to be creative with new types of instruction that The Cambridge Music Consortium has survived and will continue to thrive. Thanks to all of those who remained devoted to CMC and supportive throughout.

I look forward to seeing you all at CMC soon!

Best,

Clayton Hoener

Studio Spaces, LLC

Whether it’s teaching students to play an instrument or exposing them to the world of music and its many genres, classical music has a certain magic to it— something elemental and transformative. As musicians, we know how classical music offers a wide variety of benefits, and as educators, we know how it can bring out the best in our pupils. Since music education stimulates emotional and cognitive abilities, it can allow the brain to think in new and different ways.

Specifically, studies have shown that classical music can:

1. Decrease blood pressure: In a recent study where participants were exposed to different styles of music, including rap, pop, techno and classical, the classical music was effective at lowering participant’s blood pressure, while rap, pop, and techno actually raised it.

2. Boost memory: Studies suggest that listening to classical music can improve your memory, hearing, spatial reasoning skills and even general intelligence — otherwise known as the “Mozart effect.”

3. Spark creativity: While listening to classical music won’t instantly make a person creative, it can get those creative juices flowing faster, and serving up better ideas.

4. Reduce stress levels: A study found that pregnant women who listened to classical music were less likely to feel stressed throughout their pregnancy. Scientists claim that classical music’s tempo is similar to the human heart, which eases both anxiety and depression.

5. Improves productivity: A series of studies have proven that music makes repetitive tasks more enjoyable.

Celebrating music in all its forms!

The Cambridge Music Consortium (CMC) is a group of skilled and experienced music teachers and performers offering in-person and online music instruction for all ages and levels. Instruction is available for violin, viola, cello, Suzuki violin, viola and cello, piano, flute, clarinet, music theory, composition and songwriting. For more information, give us a call today.

There were 8 weeks of glorious weekend weather, which meant that she was able to have the first 2 months of her Suzuki Violin groups outdoors and in-person. She said it was wonderful to be able to meet in-person and to work on ensemble and group skills together. They played to an appreciative audience of parents and passersby with the occasional accompaniment of a honking car!

After so many months of Zoom classes and of being apart, we were happy to help her achieve her goal of bringing her students together.

Most of us already know in our hearts something that research studies have proven

time and time again: music is a powerful art form, one that speaks the words we don’t

have and expresses ideas we could never fathom. All it takes is a quick glance at a total

stranger while grooving along the sounds of a street musician to instantly know how

that person is feeling.

Songs from all over the globe share many common features, such as rhythm and pitch,

which lends validity to another theory: music was developed as a way to bring people

together. Music both shapes and reflects society. Dancers follow its beat; protesters

use it to find their voice. It can promote ideals -- like peace and solidarity -- but it can

also prepare armies for battle. It has been part of almost every important personal and

collective moment throughout history.

We live in a diverse world with many different cultures that invariably clash at times.

But music has the power to lower those barriers, emphasize commonalities serve as a

great unifier. Through music, all people can come together to make the world a more

harmonious place.

Celebrating music in all its forms!

The Cambridge Music Consortium (CMC) is a group of skilled and experienced music

teachers and performers offering in-person and online music instruction for all ages and

levels. Instruction is available for violin, viola, cello, Suzuki violin, viola and cello, piano,

flute, clarinet, music theory, composition and songwriting. For more information, give us

a call today.

• Each room now has an air purifier, which will continuously clean the air with carbon HEPA filters.

• HVAC upgrades to air intake filtering.

• HVAC upgraded with UVC antibacterial air purification system.

• Furniture has been moved (and removed) to make social distancing easier.

• Six-foot distancing markers in all rooms to make social distancing easier for you and your students.

• Physical barriers for vocal and wind instrument lessons.

• Disinfectant spray (medical grade) is available in each room for disinfecting before and after each lesson.

• Paper towel dispensers are available in all rooms.

• Touchless soap dispensers.

• Touchless trash cans.

• One-way entry and exit into and from CMC.

• Signage throughout reminding of social distancing and handwashing.

• Increased cleaning.

• Additional music stands

• Toilet seat covers

All of us that make up the CMC community want CMC to come back to its thriving state in which we left it. It will take some time, but it will come back with a combination of ingenuity, safety measures, in person teaching, online teaching, cooperation, and patience. Our collective ability to pivot, show resilience, and be inventive and creative with new types of instruction at this time is a credit to everyone teaching and learning at CMC. ​ With best wishes, Clayton Hoener Studio Spaces, LLC