​ACADEMICS
I want to make good citizens. If a child hears fine music from the day of his birth and learns to play it himself, he develops sensitivity, discipline and endurance. He gets a beautiful heart. —Shin'ichi Suzuki
The central belief of Suzuki is that all people can (and will) learn from their environment. The essential components of his method spring from the desire to create the "right environment" for learning music (he believed that this positive environment would also help to foster excellent character in every student).
The Kodály Method approaches music education by introducing skills in accordance with the capabilities of the student. New concepts are introduced beginning with what is easiest for the student and progressing to the more difficult, starting with basic musical concepts to using experiences such as listening, singing, movement. Concepts are constantly reviewed and reinforced through games, movement, songs, and exercises.
The Orff Approach is a "child-centered way of learning" music education that treats music as a basic system like language and believes that just as every child can learn language without formal instruction so can every child learn music by a gentle and friendly approach in a natural and comfortable setting.
Every student learns differently. Some may need structure and rules while others function better with a more creative and whimsical approach, which is why our curriculum combines the principles of the Suzuki Method, Kodály Method, and Orff Approach.
But beyond all the methods and techniques, we understand that the most important part of learning is believing in our students. Our teachers always believe the student is able to achieve their goals. Talent and creativity are not magical skills that you are either born with or not. They are cultivated. Heart & Soul School of Music encourages every student to find their own song and to make any song their own. There is no strict core of songs every student must learn. Instead, we teach what the student wants to learn while supplementing new songs, exercises and improvisational games that will help students, regardless of age, tap into their creativity, hone their skills and maintain the motivation to keep lessons fun and enjoyable!