Beginning
If you and your child would like to become involved in the Suzuki program, please attend some of our classes, listen to the Suzuki method recordings, and contact our participating teachers to learn about their studios, their policies, prices and availability. We recommend observing lessons with potential teachers to choose the best fit for you an your child. Please also call Kathleen Smith, Director of the Suzuki Strings of Lubbock program (806)-543-8581 or email her at kathleensmithstelr@gmail.com for more information.
Parent Education
A Parent education class is held at the beginning of each semester for parents of students who are new to the program. The class is designed to familiarize parents with the Suzuki philosophy, to impress upon parents their responsibility for the success of their child, and to expose them to the basic elements of what lies ahead.
Participating Teachers
Each teacher in the program is a member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas, and has received special training in the Suzuki method which has been approved and registered with the SAA. Beyond the introduction and philosophy course, the training process for each level (book) includes an audition, 15 hours with a master teacher as well as extensive observation of experienced teachers working with children. Weekly private lessons with these participating teachers are separate from the program. Scheduling and financial arrangements are solely between the parent and the individual teacher.
Tuition
The semester tuition is revealed at the start of each year and covers 15 private lessons, 8 group classes, 1 solo recital, and 1 group concert, along with any extra performances hosted. For children who are no longer participating in private lessons as part of the program, the tuition fee is $125 for all other listed activities. Tuition can be paid upfront at the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters, or it can be divided into 5 installments per semester.
Instrument purchase and Rental
Instruments and other materials are available from several local and nearby dealers. Each dealer has their own policies regarding rental, rent-to-own plans, trade-up policies, repair availability, and prices.
Shops in town that offer such services include Robisnon Strings and Tarpley Music
Magnet program
Suzuki Strings of Lubbock offers private Suzuki method violin, viola, and cello lessons as part of its magnet program. This opportunity is currently available at Roscoe Wilson. Enrollment in this program is limited. Families who participate in the Roscoe Wilson LISD magnet program are responsible for providing an instrument and STELR tuition fees.