There is no saxophone Suzuki method, but I’ve been reading about it more and asking people about their experiences with it since it seems to be an effective way of practicing and learning music for some people.  I think we as saxophone players can learn from it.  (Flute isn’t that different than saxophone after all).

The claims of Suzuki himself are a bit questionable.

“…all children can be well educated…”

—Shin’ichi Suzuki

I also believe talent is developed and not something you’re born with.

My own talent on flute isn’t particularly developed since I don’t practice it very much.  But it is the instrument that Suzuki method does cover that is probably the closest to saxophone.

I know that if I spent more time on it, I could sound much better.

Talent is developed….. and practice time is a huge part of it.  There are many other factors in becoming great at anything, but practice is the biggest one in my opinion.

Pandora Bryce in Toronto is a Suzuki method flute teacher.  She wrote an article that goes into the idea of talent.

Bryce states,

“Although the idea of being “talented” is appealing because it makes the recipient of the label feel somehow innately special – imbued with unique capabilities – it also belittles the amount of effort it takes to reach any level of mastery….”

http://www.flutefocus.com/353-talent-is-overrated-practising-is-underrated.html

What do you think?

And if you have used the Suzuki method for flute (and/or other instruments) I would love to hear about your experiences!