First Steps is a great way to assess a child’s readiness for school year instrument lessons within the Suzuki program. Students must be between 4.5 (by July 1, 2022) and 7 years old. The full session includes a parent orientation meeting and six weekly group classes.
Only violin is available in Summer 2022. Please email Kristjon@pakmusic.org if interested in updates on cello.
Summer 2022 First Steps classes will be in-person.
Suzuki is based on the philosophy that every child can learn to play a musical instrument. The Suzuki method and approach is modeled after the way we learn to speak: through listening, imitation, repetition and refinement, and parental support.
First Steps aims to inspire interest and excitement around playing the violin, with both the child and parent/guardian learning the fundamentals of violin together. These include developing small/fine motor skills needed for violin playing, helping children focus and follow directions, and offering guidance on beginning the habit of daily practice. Families will become acquainted with the Suzuki approach through orientation and group classes. By the final two weeks of First Steps, there will be sufficient experience to decide if the child is ready to join the more formal School Year Suzuki Program.
Students are required to have a correct-sized instrument in good condition by class start date. Registered families will receive information in advance regarding instrument rental. Pakachoag faculty recommend Johnson String Instrument for quality, affordable student instruments.
If missing one or two weeks of group classes, please email Amy@pakmusic.org to sign-up for a 30-minute private lesson at the current tuition rate.
Suzuki First Steps Violin | Amy Matherly, teacher
Parent Orientation Meeting: Tuesday, July 12 | 6:00-7:00pm (60-minutes)
Weekly Group Classes: Wednesdays | July 13 – August 17 | 4:30-5:15pm (45-minutes)
Tuition: $162
Parent/Caregiver and child must attend together as part of the weekly group classes.
Location: 10 Irving Street (All Saints Church) | Worcester, MA | 2nd & 3rd Floors*
*If unable to use stairs, please contact Kristjon@pakmusic.org. The School may be able to arrange a first floor room for group classes.
“Teaching young beginners is a special responsibility and pleasure. It is very gratifying to find ways to engage them in the learning process and watch their musical growth.” – Amy Matherly, First Steps Teacher
Amy Matherly has been teaching students of all ages to play the violin since 1982. She is a Suzuki Specialist with extensive training through the Suzuki Association of the Americas. She was awarded an SAA Certificate of Achievement in 2012 and is a registered SAA Teacher Trainer. She has been with Pakachoag since 2009.
Learn more about the Suzuki Method by visiting the Suzuki Association of the Americas.