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21 April 2002, Matsumoto, Japan, Shelley Sparks, Photographer
Haruko Kataoka
Required reading for Suzuki Piano Basics studio teachers; also helpful for parent teachers
Cathy Williams Hargrave
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Juri Kataoka's Illustrations are Copyrighted © 1996-2008Suzuki Piano Basics Foundation News
The premier issue of Piano Basics Foundation News features international workshop reports, three articles by Dr. Haruko Kataoka: "The Treasure of Music," "The Difficulty of Relaxing When Tense," and "The Method of Training Beginners, Number 18," and her thoughts on the 1994 International Suzuki Piano Conference in Brussels.
Published here are "The Importance of Naturalness" and "Helping Children Develop" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka. A speech by Dr. Kataoka and responses of Japanese and American students to a visit of American students to Japan is included.
This issue showcases "Win and Then Tighten the Strap On Your Helmet" and "The Importance of the Arts to Human Beings" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka. Also included are reports on the Sacramento, Louisville, and Bellingham Suzuki Piano Institutes.
Featured articles include "Look Up in Your Studies; Look Down in Your Life" and "How to Teach Beginners, Number 19" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka. The Atlanta Suzuki Piano Conference is described by Karen Hagberg, Cleo Brimhall, and Cathy Williams-Hargrave.
The last issue of 1996 contains "On Observing" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka, several articles by Pam Smith, Gloria Krueger, Jill Wellman, Ellen Walker, and Keiko Ogiwara, and an annual editor's message from Karen Hagberg.
Two articles by Dr. Haruko Kataoka appear: "How Can We Make Everyone
Happy" and "How to Teach Beginners, No. 20, Clementi: 'Sonatina', Opus 36, Number 1, 'Andante.'" Also featured are reports on Linda Nakagawa's Singapore Workshop and Dr. Kataoka's Matsumoto Workshop.
"Why Do We Practice Every Day?" and "One Day is a Lifetime!" are Dr. Haruko Kataoka's featured articles. The latest on the estranged relationship between the Suzuki Association of the Americas and Sensei Kataoka is reported. Rita Burns writes a very interesting analysis of the Matsumoto students in "Why are They so Good?" Finally, Bruce Boiney discusses "The Study of Scales and Reading."
Two of Dr. Haruko Kataoka's articles are published here, "Spirit" and "How to Teach Beginners, No. 21, Clementi: Sonatina, Op. 36, No. 1, Vivace." Carole Mayers provides her account of a teacher workshop in "A Workshop Diary: Reactions and Results."
Contained in this issue are two articles by Dr. Kataoka. In the first, "Drawing Spirit," she uses the metaphor of art to convey brilliance in the study and performance of music. A second article, "How to Teach Beginners, No. 22, Kuhlau: Sonatina, Opus 55, Number 1, Allegro," is also included. Additional features are Cheryl Kraft's "'Choco Bananas', Fundraising Matsumoto Style," and Piano Basics member contributions to "Fundraising: Dreams and Nightmares."
Features include "Listen" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka, "Louisville Musings," a commentary about the University of Louisville Suzuki Workshop held in June 1997, by Renee Eckis, "From a Mother's Heart" by Anne Klink, "Graduating from Matsumoto and Moving to Germany" by David Williams, and a new column, "Media Corner" by Bruce Boiney.
An article by Dr. Haruko Kataoka appears, "Prince Shotoku and Pianists." A second about her parent talk is entitled "Sit Up Straight! It is Good to be Nervous!" and written by Dr. Angela Rickford. Leah Brammer's "Media Corner" also appears. Particularly useful is the list of recommended discography through Book 7, videotapes and books.
Dr. Haruko Kataoka contributes two articles, "Personality Traits That We Have from Birth" and "How to Teach Beginners, Number 23, Kuhlau: Sonatina, Opus 55, Number 1, Vivace." Karen Hagberg, Rita Burns, American students and parent teachers, and Japanese host families comment, often with much humor, on the 10-Piano Concert in Matsumoto, Japan for 1997.
A tribute to Dr. Shinichi Suzuki is featured here, photo included. Articles include "The Cookie Man" by Karen Hagberg, "Thank You, Dr. Suzuki" by Cleo Brimhall, "Piano Tone: Musical Tone, Part 1" and "How to Teach Beginners, No. 23, Bagatelle (Theme) - Beethoven" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka, "My Suzuki Experience in Rochester" by Corinna Chang, and "Why Go to a Summer Workshop?" by Judy Prichard. Workshop news is also given.
This issue contains "Piano Tone: Musical Tone, Part 2" and "How to Teach Beginners: No. 25, The Wild Rider--Schumann" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka and "How Golf and Piano Mix" by Jeffrey Edelman. "A Mixture of Sadness and Happiness" by Bruce Anderson and a note from Mrs. Suzuki also appear.
Issue 3.4 includes Dr. Haruko Kataoka's "Piano Tone: Musical Tone, Part 3" and "How to Teach Beginners, No. 26 Ecossaise, by Beethoven." Also included are Dr. Karen Hagberg's "7-Piano Concert in Rochester," Becky Sumner's charming "Seizo Azuma in Rochester: One Mother's Experience," several letters, 1999 workshop information, and the valuable Piano Basics Discography.
Several important articles grace Volume 3.5. Dr. Karen Hagberg's "Teaching the Twinkle Variations, Pam Smith's "Teacher to Teacher," and Jane Brashears "The Real Payoff Behind Practicing and Listening" highlight this issue.
In this issue Karen Hagberg defends Dr. Haruko Kataoka in her ongoing confrontation with the International Suzuki Association. Dr. Kataoka's "How to Teach Beginners" and "How to Teach Reading" appear. Other important articles include Cleo Brimhall's "Suzuki Centennial Celebration, A Piano Basic Contribution" and Karen Hagberg's "On Reading Music." A very special poem, "Ode to My Grand Piano," written by 10-year-old Laura Binford, a student in Bruce Boiney's Louisville studio, is published here.
The first issue for 1999 includes "The Heart of Art," and "How to Teach Beginners, No. 27, Clementi, Sonatina, Op. 36, no.3, Spiritoso (Part 2)" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka. Elaine Worley's notes are turned into an article, "Dr. Kataoka Lectures: How to Teach Reading, Part Two: How to Teach Methode Rose." The last article is by Dr. Karen Hagberg, "What?? No Western Kataoka Workshop in '99?"
Inside this issue are Dr. Haruko Kataoka's "Let's Have Conviction!" and her lecture, "How to Teach Reading, Part Three: 'Recreations' by Carl Czerny," recreated by Elaine Worley from her notes taken in Salt Lake City, 1993 and Sacramento, 1992-1993. Seizo Azuma's "La Campanella: F. Liszt 'Favorites'" is reviewed favorably by Dr. Karen Hagberg. Details of Dr. Kataoka's US workshops in Louisville, Philadelphia, and Sacramento are also given.
Wonderful essays from student/parent/teacher participants at the 1999 Matsumoto 10-Piano Concert are included here. Essays have been written by Vicki and Brandon Seil, Michelle and Tammy Uichanco, Mei Ihara, Kelly Chu, Judy Wely, Laura Kauppi, Rita Burns, and Alison Barrett. Dr. Haruko Kataoka's How To Teach Reading, derived from the notes of Elaine Worley, is an important part of this issue. Finally, information on the forthcoming in Sacramento, California is given.
Dr. Kataoka explains the responsibilities of adults in the student-teacher-adult learning triangle. Joan Krzywicki reports on the Philadelphia Suzuki Piano Basics Workshop. Carole Mayers explores what Dr. Suzuki meant when he said, "Suzuki Method is parent education." Dr. Kataoka is revealed through the eyes of ten-year-old Peter Moser. The minutes of the 1999 Suzuki Piano Basics Foundation Annual Meeting are reproduced. Finally, the new Suzuki Piano Basics Discography is published.
The 10-Piano Concert held in Sacramento, California on 6 August 1999 is featured. Some twenty-six teachers, parents, and students describe their months of preparation, weeks in Sacramento, and the night of the concert. Over one hundred students from around the world participated. Selected pieces from the Suzuki piano repertoire were performed by groups of ten students who played simultaneously with great beauty on ten grand pianos. Some wonderful photos are included.
Features "Genius or Effort" by Kataoka Sensei, her US Workshop Schedule for 2000, Seizo Azuma's US Concert Tour, "Playing in 'The Zone' by Dr. Karen Hagberg, Pam Werner's reviews of Cathy Williams-Hargrave's Reading Music by Ear and Basic Rhythm Studies, and Janice Porter's reviews of the CD series, Great Pianists of the 20th Century, and the BMG classics video on Alicia De Larrocha.
The first issue of 2000 features Dr. Haruko Kataoka's "Save Courage to be Repetitious" and the second part of Dr. Karen Hagberg's two-part "Playing in the Zone or, How to Choose a Good Piano." Also inside are all of the Suzuki Piano Basics summer institutes. Concert pianist Seizo Azuma's schedule and program are also listed.
In this issue is Dr. Kataoka's article, "Electric Piano," in which she recalls her mother often exclaiming, "Haruko, the piano!" Dr. Karen Hagberg's Part 2 of "Playing in the Zone or How to Choose a Good Piano" is concluded.
Two articles, "The Sense of Accomplishment" and "Children are Wonderful" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka are published here, the latter with a drawing by Julie Kataoka. Eleven visiting Japanese students describe their lives in Japan and their love for the piano during their trip to Rochester, NY and Sacramento, CA. Dr. Carolyn M. Barrett discusses the relationship between the true Suzuki spirit and Suzuki Piano Basics method of teaching in the aftermath of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki's death. Dorothy Drake presents commentaries from several Louisville Institute attendees including Gloria Elliott, Judy Wely, Renee Eckis, Carole Mayers, Vicki Merley, and Vicki Seil. Enjoy!
With some humor and a bit of gravity parents, children, and Matsumoto's Suzuki Piano Basics teachers share their experiences in "All Children in the World Hate to Practice." Rita Burns discusses why you should attend a Suzuki Piano Basics Workshop in "Dissatisfaction Leads to Opportunity." Kataoka Sensei instructs in "How to Teach Beginners, No. 29, Minuets 1, 3, and 8 by Mozart." The issue closes with Leah Brammer's review of Argentine-born Martha Argerich's Debut Recital.
The last issue of the true millennium contains two articles by Kataoka Sensei, "Think About the Long Term Goal, Not Just the Short Term Goal!" and "Time for Learning." Cathy Williams Hargrave begins a series that corrects the inconsistencies in the published editions of the Suzuki piano volumes, "Reconciling Editions: A Guide for Teachers and Parents, Book 1, Twinkle Variations." Leah Brammer's review of a fascinating video, "The Art of Piano: Great Pianists of the 20th Century" is included. Sarah Khatibzadeh, twelve years of age, shares her experiences in "The Importance of Practicing." Finally, an updated discography is included.
The new millennium brings some very interesting reading and instructional materials for Suzuki Piano Basics Newsletter readers. Dr. Kataoka opens the issue with "All Babies are Born with Ability." Two articles from students' and teachers' perspectives discuss "Experiences in Japan" and "Trip to the USA 2000." Rita Burns reports on the "Matsumoto 10-Piano Concert 2000." Linda Nakagawa shares "This Time in Matsumoto." Dr. Kataoka's 2001 Workshop Schedule is included. Finally, Cathy Williams Hargrave contributes "Reconciling Editions: A Guide for Teachers and Parents - 'Book 1'."
Further details of the 2001 Workshops are given here. Kataoka Sensei compares sports with studying music in "What a Great Competition, the 2000 Olympics." Kataoka Sensei also comments on the wonderful results of the 10-Piano Concert in Matsumoto, Japan in "Heart and Responsibility." Rita Burns encourages attendance at a summer workshop in "Plan for a Summer Workshop with Dr. Kataoka Now!" Her article is complemented by Aleli Tibay's "Thoughts on Preparing for the Orange County Kataoka Workshop." Leah Brammer discusses how to apply new technologies such as CD-RW computer drives to the Suzuki Piano Basics methodology in "Technologies for Listening and Learning." Cathy Williams Hargrave continues her analysis of Suzuki books in "Reconciliation of Editions of the Suzuki Piano School, Part 3, Volume 2: Ecossaise, A Short Story, and Happy Farmer." This very rich volume concludes with two speeches: Brandon Seil, one of our piano school's finest students, lets the audience know how much he respects Kataoka Sensei; Carole Browning from Hokkaido, Japan gives a moving testimony to the sacrifices she and her family have made for her children to take lessons from Kataoka Sensei, who lives hundreds of miles across sea and land from her.
Kataoka Sensei presents "How to Teach Beginners, Nos. 29 - 32: Minuet 1, Minuet 3 and Minuet 8 by Mozart, and Musette by Bach." A new "Teachers' Forum" is introduced. Cathy Williams Hargrave continues her series "Reconciliation of Editions of the Suzuki Piano School, Part 4: Volume 2: Minuets 1, 2, 3 and Minuet in G." Leah Brammer reviews the "2000 Suzuki Method 10-Piano Concert" video. A variety of important announcements and details of forthcoming workshops are also published.
"I Hate to Practice!" and "Children Are Their Environment" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka are featured here. JoAnne Westerheide, Elena Fettig, Sheila Majia, Melody Diehl, Tina Bernabo, and Vicki Merley recall their wonderful week at the University of Louisville's Suzuki Piano Institute. Advice for the new Suzuki parent is given in the "Letters to the Editor" column.
"Imagination" is the lead article from Dr. Haruko Kataoka. Her letter of appeal to the US Suzuki community on behalf of Megumi Sugita follows. Rita Burns and Vicki Seil report on the 10-Piano Concert held in Sacramento in August. Finally, Cathy Williams Hargrave publishes part 5 of her series comparing editions of the Suzuki Piano School.
Kataoka Sensei reveals the relationship between children, parents and teachers in "Children are Mirrors of Their Parents." Dr. Karen Hagberg discusses the relationship between the Suzuki Method and the terrorist act of September 11th in New York City in "Suzuki Method in These Times." Dr. Kataoka's 2002 workshops schedule is listed. Cathy Williams Hargrave continues her series on reconciling editions of the Suzuki Piano School with a discussion of Mozart's Minuet. The minutes of the PBF annual membership meeting are reproduced. Joe Mieszek's letter to the editor is reproduced. Finally, participants at the forthcoming Matsumoto 10-Piano Concert in April 2002 are listed.
The new year opens with two articles by Kataoka Sensei, "Be a Beast" and "The Kentucky Derby." Cathy William Hargrave's "Reconciliation of Editions of the Suzuki Piano School" is continued in Part 6. Leah Brammer helps us smile with "Oh, To Hear Bach in the Morning!", followed by Rita Burns and Dorothy Drake exhorting us to attend a workshop in their respective articles, "Attend a Summer Workshop" and "Renew Yourself!"
This issue contains Dr. Haruko Kataoka's "Shall We Change Our Way of Thinking?", Leah Brammer's "Listening for the 2002 10-Piano Concert Repertoire," Cathy Williams Hargrave's "Reconciliation of Editions of the Suzuki Piano School, Part Seven: Melody by Robert Schumann", Kathy Moser's "A Four-Piano Event," Rita Burns' "Experience a Beast in Action," and details of forthcoming workshops.
Articles by Dr. Kataoka include "How to Practice, Parts 1 and 2," two articles entitled "Children are Wonderful," "Repetition is Very Important," "The Ability of Humans to Memorize," and a medical update and get-well address for piano student Megumi Sugita.
"A Much Better Environment" by Dr. Kataoka introduces this issue. Almost all of the newsletter is devoted to articles about and photos from the Ten-Piano Concert in Matsumoto, Japan. Featured writers include Rita Burns, Karen Hagberg, and Joseph Randazzo. The six black and white photos in the hard copy edition are reproduced here in vivid color, Shelley Sparks, Photographer.
This fall issue contains articles on the 2nd 10-Piano Concert and Workshop in Sacramento, 2-7 August 2002, by Dr. Haruko Kataoka, Shirlee Rickman, Eleanor Tsui, Kara VanderMeulen, Amber Jorgensen, and an article on the Tenth Atlanta Workshop by Leah Brammer. For photography from Atlanta see photos. Also included is a letter from Barbara Ray Francis concerning Suzuki student Joshua Powell, whose heroic firefighting father was killed during the events of 11 September. Finally, this issue contains a report on the membership's annual meeting held in Louisville, 3-7 June 2002, and a teaching article, both by Cathy Williams Hargrave.
The concluding issue for 2002 contains "A Gift From Parents (Life's Foundation)" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka; another update of "Reconciliation of Editions of The Suzuki Piano School, Volume 2," Part Nine: Sonatina in G Major by Ludwig van Beethoven, Romance, Second Movement" by Cathy Williams Hargrave; Elizabeth Sherk's workshop report; "Planning Ahead" by Rita Burns; and Karen Hagberg's review of Fun Classics.
"Always Breathe Deeply!" and "'ONE MILLION TIMES' SAVINGS" from Dr. Haruko Kataoka are published here. Cathy Williams-Hargrave's "Reconciliation of Editions of The Suzuki Piano School" continues with Volume 2. Kate Thompson (15) supports vinyl in "Records are Retro;" Susan Payne addresses parenting in "It's Simple but It's Not Easy;" Tanya Matsuda comments on attending institutes in her "Letter to the Editor;" and several announcements about workshops and the 10-Piano Concerts are included.
"Natural And Unnatural" is Dr. Haruko Kataoka's pedagogical essay in this issue. Leah Brammer encourages parents to introduce children to well performed classical music cds in her "Nurture Your Child's Musical Taste." Information on piano institutes in Louisville, Kentucky and Orange County, California, recitals by Seizo Azuma, and the annual foundation meeting is given. Rita Burns argues convincingly that you should reward yourself with the beauty of the Orange County institute in her "Fill Up Your Tank And Give To Yourself." Cathy Williams Hargrave gives us another segment in her reconciliation series of Suzuki piano repertoire in "Reconciliation of Editions of the Suzuki Piano School, Volume 2, Part Eleven: Minuet in G Minor by J.S. Bach." This issue concludes with the announcement of Suzuki-L, an online discussion list about Suzuki Piano Basics
pedagogy.
Dr. Haruko Kataoka publishes two articles in this issue: "Classical Music is Food For the Heart" and "Children are Wonderful!" Rita Burns writes about the forthcoming student-teacher trip to Matsumoto, Japan. A tribute and heartfelt thanks to Cheryl Kraft, who has resigned as editor, is given. Karen Hagberg writes a review on the new Argerich DVD documentary and Cathy Williams Hargrave continues her study reconciling the editions of the Suzuki Piano repertoire with her analysis of Book Two's Sonatina, Op. 36, #1 Allegro.
Two articles from Dr. Haruko Kataoka in this issue are "Let's Have Strong Faith" and "Children are Wonderful!" A list of the US teachers who will attend the 10-Piano Concert in Matsumoto from November 1-16, 2003 is given. Leanne Anderson discusses her workshop experience in "I Must Go! Thoughts on Orange County's Workshop." Several photos are included. Finally, Janet Dizney relates her trip to Japan in "There and Back Again, A Suzuki Piano Teacher's Tale."
Dr. Kataoka publishes "Patience and Effort" and "The Piano Method That Allows Anybody to be able to Play Well, Part 1." Cathy Williams Hargrave reconciles the Zen-On and Warner Brothers editions of Volume 3, Part 2, Sonatina, Opus 36, #1. Leah Brammer, Linda Nakagawa, parents, and children discuss the 10-Piano Concert. Some photos are included.
Two articles by Kataoka Sensei appear here: "What is Responsibility?" and "The Piano Method That Allows Anybody to Play Well, Part 2." Cathy Williams Hargrave continues her Reconciliation series with "Reconciliation of Editions of the Suzuki Piano School Volume 3, Part 3, Sonatina, Op. 36, #1; Vivace." She also writes a memorial for Suzuki Piano Basics supporter Dr. Gerald Kraft. The issue concludes with the business meeting minutes of 2002 and 2003.
Dedicated to Dr. Haruko Kataoka, the Memorial Issue celebrates the life of Haruko Sensei. The publication contains Dr. Kataoka's speech to teachers in Matsumoto, Japan, 12 November 2003. Karen Hagberg's tribute and account of the funeral are also included. For an updated summer workshop list see http://core.ecu.edu/hist/wilburnk/SuzukiPianoBasics/Workshops/index.htm.
This edition contains Sensei's Speech from the 10-Piano Concert in Matsumoto, Japan, November 16, 2003 and her article, "Heaven and Hell." Huub de Leeuw from Utrecht, Netherlands published "Shishi no ko-otoshi: Thoughts on Kataoka Sensei's Guidance." For an updated summer workshop list see
http://core.ecu.edu/hist/wilburnk/SuzukiPianoBasics/Workshops/index.htm.
Contains Kataoka Sensei's "Please Tell Your Students How to Practice," "The Piano Method That Allows Anybody to be able to Play Well," Part Three, and "Mothers are Wonderful." The issue concludes with Karen Hagberg's update on workshops with "Teacher Training without Kataoka Sensei: Plans for Summer 2004."
Dr. Haruko Kataoka's August 2001 Talent Education Institute speech is the lead article. Karen Hagberg reports on the 6-piano concert held in Louisville. The 2004 membership meeting report completes this issue.
Dr. Haruko Kataoka shares her thoughts on the 2003 Louisville Workshop. Kazuko Tanaka and Keiko Kawamura discuss their teaching experiences in the United States. Rita Burns's "Life Goes On" reflects on Dr. Kataoka. Karen Hagberg, Barbara Francis, Barbara Meixner, and Leah Brammer recall the 2004 Sacramento Workshop.
The lengthy and informative second installment of Dr. Haruko Kataoka's essay entitled "Dr. Suzuki's Education, Part 2" is the lead article. In "Life Changing Piano Study" Vicki Seil recalls the wonderful experiences she and her son Brandon had during their trips to Matsumoto, including observing Dr. Kataoka teaching her own students and visits to the Kawai and Yamaha piano factories. Workshop, memorial fund, and discography announcements conclude this issue.
Articles include Kataoka Sensei's "You Are Smart!", "Living Tone" by Karen Hagberg, Rochester, New York, and "Lessons in Japan, 1" by Mayumi Takashima Yunus, Tokyo, Japan plus upcoming Suzuki Piano Basics Events in 2005.
In the first article", "The Power of Making a Decision," Kataoka Sensei unfolds the "hidden power that emerges when you really decide to do something", and gives advice to parents on the willingness of children to practice or not. The second article, "Living Tone: a Footnote," is a continuation of Karen Hagberg's article "Living Tone" in Vol. 10. 1 issue. Next, reflections on "The 4th Sacramento Suzuki Piano Basics International 10-Piano concert," the first one without Kataoka Sensei, are related by Linda Nakagawa, Sacramento, California. Also included in this edition is "A Haiku Diary" from the Piano Basics Teacher Research Workshop in Dallas, Texas, February 9-12, 2005 where the teachers share their insights of Kataoka Sensei.
"When you see something not only from one side but from many different sides, you can get more interesting results" sums up Dr. Kataoka's view on perspective in her article entitled, "Would you like to change?" Leah Brammer reflects on her daughter Bria's first solo trip to Matsumoto. Memoirs are shared by Gretel von Pischke, Leanne Anderson, Mei Ihara, Rae Kate Shen, and Rita Burns of their studies in Matsumoto.
The benefits and meaning of "Kiai" or good spirit is explored in Kataoka Sensei's article. This issue lists the "Matsumoto 10-Piano Concert 2006 Guidelines". Vicki Merley and Eileen Cloutier share their "Thoughts after the Dallas Workshop". Karen Hagberg's article "How We Research Now" is followed by the particulars of an upcoming November 2005 workshop in Rochester, NY.
Published in this issue are: "The Difficulty of Communicating With Words" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka, and 'Lessons from Kataoka Sensei, 1' "Why We Need Acoustic Instruments" by Karen Hagberg; two articles from Omaha, Nebraska: "The 2005 10-Piano Concert in Sacramento: The Many "Hats" I Wore" by Pam Fusselman, and "What Was I Thinking? A Teacher Performs at the 10-Piano Concert" by Carol Novak. A tribute of heartfelt thanks to those teachers from Japan who came to help with the 10-Piano Concert in Sacramento August 13, 2005 is included followed by a list of upcoming Suzuki Piano Basics Workshops/Events and a listing of the Piano Basics Foundation Education Materials.
The following articles appear in this issue: "The World of Nothing" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka; "The Importance of the Suzuki Piano Basics Teacher Research Workshop in Rochester" by Ann Taylor from Tucson, Arizona; "Four From Utah to Rochester" by Cleo Ann Brimhall of Salt Lake city, Utah; "My Experience in Rochester" by George Thigpen, spouse of Marile Thigpen, from Potomic Falls, Virginia; "Rochester Magic" by Christine Albro from Cary, North Carolina; and 'Lessons from Kataoka Sensei, II', "Why We Need Two Pianos for Teaching" by Karen Hagberg. Also, included are a listing of the upcoming Suzuki Piano Basics Workshops and Events, plus a listing of Piano Basics Foundation Educational Materials.
Included in this issue are outstanding articles by Dr. Haruko Kataoka Sensei tapping the hidden human potential of human beings, plus emphasizing the importance of continuing research and good seating equipment. Sources for good seating equipment are listed. Teachers and students who attended the Japan 10-Piano Concert 2006 are inserted along with Upcoming Suzuki Piano Basics Workshops/Events and a list of Piano Basics Foundation Educational Materials.
We are privileged to have two articles written by Dr. Haruko Kataoka Sensei from the _Matsumoto Suzuki Piano Newsletter_, translated by Karen Hagberg in this issue of the _Suzuki Piano Basics Foundation News. In _The Joy of Achievement_ she expresses the true way to inner motivation and satisfaction through successful accomplishments. Also, in her ongoing articles of lessons she describes _The Essentials of Teacher Training_. Seizo Azuma is featured with a program of his Orange County concert in June, 2006, and upcoming summer events are highlighted.
The spirit of Japan and the 2006 International 10 Piano Concert held in Matsumoto in April is captured in this eye-opening issue detailing interesting points on the preparation and performance of the concert as well as insights into observations of students, parents, and teachers of the wonderful experiences they had in the country. An important article entitled "Just Enjoy!" by Dr. Haruko Kataoka Sensei is reproduced from the "Matsumoto Suzuki Piano Newsletter," Vol. 10., No. 2, July 13, 2000, edited by Karen Hagberg explaining the danger of saying "Let's just enjoy!" Piano Basics Foundation upcoming workshops/events are listed from July 2006 to March 2007. Beautiful color photos accompanying this issue were taken by Malinda Rawls.
Dr. Haruko Kataoka's article "Think not only about the Present, but the Future!" contains important guidance for all parents in preparing children to stand on their own in the future with confidence, strength, and dignity. Janet Dizney of Federal Way, Washington provides an article entitled: "Getting Inspired in Sacramento" relaying the great experience the Sacramento Suzuki Piano Basics Teacher Research Workshop, August 8, 2006, directed by Linda Nakagawa of Sacramento, CA, has given her and those that attended. Included is a picture taken by Dorothy Drake of the Japanese visitors following the Friendship Concert. A list of Piano Basics Foundation Upcoming Workshops/Events conclude this edition.
Dr. Kataoka lives through another of her marvelous articles giving sound advice on "What Makes a Wonderful Suzuki Teacher?" translated by Mitsuo Furumachi and edited by Karen Hagberg. An announcement is made of the Philadelphia workshop coinciding with an appearance by the legendary pianist Martha Argerich with the Philadelphia Orchestra, and the preparations for the fifth Suzuki Piano Basics International 10-Piano Concert, in Sacramento, California Saturday, August 18, 2007. Linda Nakagawa enlightens us on general guidelines of the order of the pieces in the upper repertoire in "Suzuki Repertoire as Taught in Japan" as related in conversations with the Japanese teachers who attended the 2006 Sacramento Teacher Research Workshop. Benefits of Membership in Suzuki Piano Basics Foundation are listed followed by an account of the Piano Basics Foundation upcoming workshops and events.
This Volume contains valuable insights for parents by Haruko Kataoka, edited by Karen Hagberg and translated by Haruko Sakakibara entitled "The Responsibility of Adults". Also included is an interesting article by Karen Hagberg with Ken Wilburn, our web editor, called "Ken Wilburn: the Man Behind the Web Site" filling us in on how the Suzuki Piano Basics Foundation Web Site was born. The final article, "What Is It Like to Go to Japan? Part 1" by Karen Hagberg, is a vivid description of her trip to Japan for the 10-Piano Concert. Pictures are included of Karen's trip and Kenneth Wilburn with his children, Shelly and Kenny. Piano Basics Foundation Upcoming Workshops and Events are also listed in this volume.
The article by Dr. Haruko Kataoka, translated by Chisa Aoki and Teri Paradero, edited by Karen Hagberg, entitled "Ingredients: the Ability to Select the Best" opens this edition relating the importance of tonal awareness as the basic ingredient in learning a piece of music. Secondly, Karen Hagberg shares more of her trip to Japan with "What Is It Like to go to Japan? Part 2" to be continued. Summer 2007 and 2008 News is listed followed by Piano Basics Foundation Upcoming Workshops and Events.
Dr. Kataoka relates practical and invaluable information on the value of repetition in all things in life as well as music ability development. The magnificent program for the Sacramento International 10-Piano Concert, scheduled for August 18, 2007 at the Sacramento Convention Center Theater and other information, is listed followed by a write up of the March Philadelphia Workshop. Next, is a very informative article on "How Fluent Are Your Twinkles?" 'General Remarks on Teaching Suzuki Piano' 'The world behind the Twinkles and their accompaniment' by Huub de Leeuw, Utrecht, the Netherlands. This is a jewel for the Piano Basics teaching library. In conclusion is a list of the Piano Basics Foundation Upcoming Workshops and Events from March 9 through August 18, 2007.
Dr. Kataoka offers a moving article on how music contributes to world peace followed by an announcement of the new video library resource. Linda Nakagawa relates valuable information and guidelines for students participating in the Suzuki Piano Basics International 10-Piano Concerts. A list of the Piano Basics Foundation Upcoming Workshops and Events concludes the volume.
The first article, "Let's Get Rid of Unnecessary Tension," by Haruko Kataoka Sensei is a treasure for any kind of activity, especially playing the piano! Valuable insights into teaching and performing acquired from working on the Sacramento 10-Piano Concert performed August 18, 2007 are relayed in Linda Nakagawa's article "Worlds Apart." The video project is updated by Karen Hagberg, and in the following article, grateful comments are relayed by Karen for the Japanese teachers, who traveled from Japan to teach at the week-long Louisville Suzuki Piano Basics Institute in June 2007. New members are welcomed, followed by an article by Aleli Tibay and one by Rita Burns on the Orange County Teacher Research Workshop held in June 2007 at Concordia University, Irvine, California. In conclusion is a list of upcoming workshops and events followed by an announcement of the Matsumoto 10-Piano Concert 2008.
The warm spirit and responsibility of studying in Japan for the 10-Piano Concert in November was captured by Haruko Katoka Sensei in her article "Heart and Responsibility" followed by many beautiful and very interesting pictures relating the views of the 5th Sacramento Suzuki Piano Basics International 10-Piano Concert August 18, 2007. In conclusion, the speech "Dr. Kataoka's True Lesson" delivered by Ryota Miyoshi at the banquet following the Sacramento 10-Piano Concert on August 18, 2007 was printed emphasizing Dr. Kataoka was a "life teacher" as well as an outstanding piano teacher. A list of upcoming events follows.
Beginning with an article entitled "Morals" by Haruko Kataoka Sensei, acquiring human morals are compared to the way piano basics have to be taught with consistency at a very young age. The next article "Concerned" by Linda Nakagawa relates how our students mimic their teachers. She outlines the elements that make good Suzuki Piano Basic teachers and emphasizes how important it is to observe good teachers. An announcement is made about that the Suzuki Piano Basics Video Archive is ready to proceed. Karen Hagberg fills us in on Part 3 of her amazing articles "What Is It Like to Go to Japan? Part 3" followed by a list of upcoming workshops and events.
The first article, "Anxiety, Joy, and Emotion" by Haruko Kataoka compares learning how to handle these emotions with preparing and performing recitals enabling students for the elements of life. A report follows on the "Summer 2008: a Menu of opportunity for Contact with Japan". Next, Linda Nakagawa shares an outstanding article on "The Power of Observation" and relates her personal experiences gained by observing Haruko Kataoka Sensei's workshops in Japan. The program of the 2008 Matsumoto 10-grand piano concert is then revealed in the next article. followed by an account of upcoming workshops and events. A list and order blank is included for the 20% off sale through May 1, 2008 of Piano Basics Foundation Educational Materials.
Suzuki-L: Selected Postings
The archives of the postings of Suzuki-L subscribers discussing the pedagogy
of Drs. Haruko Kataoka and Shinichi Suzuki are presented here. Volume One
dates from 10 February 2003 through 15 March 2006. Volume Two continues
between 16 March 2006 through 23 January 2008. To view the archives you must
subscribe to Suzuki-L. Subscribing to Suzuki-L is free. To do so, email your name,
city, country and whether you are a teacher, parent or friend of Suzuki to
Kenneth Wilburn: wilburnk@ecu.edu. If you are already a subscriber and have
forgotten your password, email Kenneth Wilburn at the same address.
Significantly expanded from the brief bibliography posted to Suzuki-L on 28 February 2003, this full bibliography and thesis summary provide evidence of the effectiveness of Suzuki pedagogy.
A series of postings discussing the efficacy of the bow between teacher and student at the beginning and the end of Suzuki piano lessons.
This presentation, which examines the relationship between Suzuki pedagogy and the concept of "Dou" or "The Way," was presented to the European Suzuki Association, 20 September 2002, in London, England.
Suzuki, Piano, and Music Links
The AASPA was formed by parents and teachers of Suzuki piano students to promote education, service and communication among Suzuki supporters. The Association promotes principles of the Suzuki method of education as set forth by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki.
This Canadian Suzuki association coordinates, supports, and publicizes Suzuki events in Calgary; promotes Suzuki teaching, training and education of teachers, parents, students and the general public; encourages the highest standards of excellence in teaching and playing; and acts as a forum for communication among teachers.
Provides a directory of links to over 2800 free downloads of classical performances on the internet, sorted by composer and work.
The ESA web site is maintained by Birte Kelly in East Bergholt, Suffolk, England. A wonderful section of the ESA's web site is the National Associations section listing links to some 20 Suzuki organizations worldwide.
This global association oversees the Suzuki Regional Associations. Also listed are the members of each regional organization on the Suzuki Piano Committee.
Ithaca College's institutes are patterned after the summer school programs in Matsumoto, Japan, where teachers, students, and parents study Talent Education. The institutes focus on violin and cello.
The home page for Kawai in the Americas: Product description, technical information and a brief company history are provided.
This terrific web site is a broad, annotated list of music hyperlinks for students, parents, and educators. Topics include music education, classical music, the piano, and popular music.
This list conveniently gives the US telephone numbers of some 85 piano manufacturers and distributors.
The home of Cathy Hargrave's studio and the Southwest Suzuki Piano Institute.
Maintained by Ronald Lee Berry and the Piano Technicians Guild, this web site contains music resources, classical music sites, music software, and technical data.
Steinway's home page gives the New York company a lovely presence in cyberspace.
Created by Cheryl Stewart and her colleagues, the St. Louis Suzuki Piano Teacher's Association web site has been created to enhance communication and learning among piano teachers who follow the teachings of Shinichi Suzuki and Haruko Kataoka.
Here is regional Suzuki association for North and South America, the Suzuki Association of the Americas web site. Several informative components of the site include a brief biography of Shinichi Suzuki and two excerpts from his writings:
"
Instilling the Desire to Learn" and
About the Suzuki Method. Also included are the helpful Bibliography and the Suzuki Twinkler, which explains to parents the Suzuki Method from the U.S. perspective.
Richard Coff, trained by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, offers the Suzuki Method to students in South Florida.
The web site of the Orange County, California branch of the Suzuki world contains a synopsis of the Suzuki Method and the Suzuki Code of Ethics.
This Suzuki association is a nonprofit organization of Suzuki teachers and families who support and promote the principles and ideals of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, and is located in Woodland Hills, California.
A Suzuki Piano Basics teacher, Benjamin Smith, has created a music resource center for the music education community. The site features ordering information via Amazon.com.
Teresa Conkel's studio web site in Arlington, Texas, USA
Bruce Boiney's studio home page, Louisville, Kentucky.
Founded by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, the Talent Education Research Institute continues to develop the Suzuki Method. Included in the English section of the web site are a helpful local History and an account of the Suzuki Method's Global Expansion.
The home page for Yamaha Pianos.
Kenneth Wilburn, web editor, is the Suzuki Dad of Kenny (Book 2) and Shelly (Book 4). Shelly has recently entered college and intends to teach math and English. Kenny left Suzuki Piano with the departure of his teacher after 7 years of study. He has since applied his Suzuki techniques and finely tuned ears to the electric guitar and popular music, although he often listens to classical music while he sleeps. See Photos of Shelly and Gretchen Lindeblad (1996), Dr. Haruko Kataoka (1996), and Suzuki Friends (1998).
First Online Edition: 7 July 1997
Last Revised: 13 March 2008