The Suzuki Bow and Other Graces

There are certain small disciplines your student will learn and make use of at each lesson.  Some have a more symbolic meaning than meets the eye; all contribute to a more disciplined and graceful approach to living and learning.  The bow, which performers use to acknowledge applause, is used at lessons, group lessons and performances at all Suzuki programs and institutes.  It signifies the beginning and ending of the lesson.  From the time the student and teacher bow to one another, it is lesson time.  The parent should not interject comments or attempt to physically or verbally assist or reprimand unless specifically requested to do so by the teacher.  The bow also indicates respect for one another, for teaching and for learning.  These small, but important disciplines give a framework to the lesson which is easily understood.

The correct bow (arms to the side, feet together, and look at toes) like the correct playing posture, is a confidence builder and when practiced routinely, helps to develop stage presence and poise as well as a genuine attitude of respect.

The bow, and other non-Western ideas you may encounter have been carefully and thoughtfully incorporated into our program, not to rubber stamp or copy the pleasing mannerisms of another culture, but to contribute to the attitudes towards life, learning, and music which we hope to encourage.