Who We Are
“To encourage a noble heart through music” ~ Shinichi Suzuki
The mission of the Buffalo Suzuki Strings is to teach children about music in a manner consistent with the philosophy and pedagogy developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. The BSS music education program is patterned after Dr. Suzuki’s philosophy that any child can learn to play an instrument when the environment surrounding the child is supportive in the most positive way.
BSS is dedicated to instilling in every student, beginning at an early age, the pursuit of excellence through a strong partnership of parents, teachers, students and the community. Supported by the belief that excellence in early musical training can lead children to happy, productive adulthoods, it is our goal to produce noble human beings through the beauty of music.
The study of a musical instrument in our program is enhanced by the relationship of the student, teacher, and parent, called the “Suzuki Triangle.” The parent attends lessons with the student, practices daily with the student, and listens to music with the student, both through recordings and live performances. Listening to music and attending concerts is beneficial in helping children to learn the language of music.
Private lessons are held on a weekly basis, with group classes occurring twice a month during the regular school year. Private lessons lengths may be 30, 45, or 60 minutes, depending on the age and playing level of the student. In group classes, the students play their common repertoire together, learn new music, and build their musicianship skills by playing together. BSS also has a comprehensive curriculum of music reading clases.
Community concerts are performed throughout the year at various venues, including hospitals, community centers and public parks. The BSS advanced ensemble also participates in a yearly professional performance with the Ars Nova Chamber Musicians in the Viva Vivaldi Festival each November, as well as various community and social events.
BSS is dedicated to promoting Dr. Suzuki’s goal of “World Harmony Through Music.” This ideal is supported through BSS tours around the globe. We believe we can promote peace, understanding and friendship among the people of the world by spreading the universal language of music.
Through excellence in environment and musical training, BSS endeavors to guide students to a better adulthood as a result of exceptional training in childhood.