The Suzuki Voice Program

The Suzuki Voice has been developed in Finland since 1986 by Dr. Päivi Kukkamäki. The Suzuki Voice teaches children aged prenatal to adulthood. It begins with the understanding that the voice is an instrument and each student’s individual needs will be addressed.

Early vocal instruction begins in groups, however all voice students’ progress to individual lessons at a very early age and are encouraged to perform as soloists when they are ready.

Memory and performance skills are established early and progress accordingly. As the child’s vocal skills develop, reading is introduced as a separate skill – just as you learn to speak, before you learn to read, you learn to sing well before you learn to read music.

Up until the age of two, the Suzuki Voice can be used as a method that enhances interaction between parents and children. The teacher leads the activity in lessons and supports the relationship between the mother or father and the baby.

The parents are taught the early steps of their child’s instrument. They are taught to listen and to feel comfortable singing the early repertoire.

As the child becomes more independent (age 3+), the interaction between a child and a teacher increases, and the role of the parent will be more observing and supporting in lessons. Individual lessons in addition to group lessons are encouraged at this stage.