The Suzuki approach relies strongly on the cooperative relationship of teacher, parent and student in a pleasant, yet disciplined environment. To ensure a successful, enjoyable experience for all, parents must be committed to providing enthusiastic support for the process of learning to play the instrument.

Since Suzuki's approach is modeled on the way children learn to speak their native language, it involves listening, observation and imitation of parent and teacher. The teacher serves as mentor to both parent and child in their student of the instrument, teaching the child at the lesson and guiding the parent in developing techniques for teaching the child at home.

The parents' role involes:

1. Committing themselves to their own on-going education about the Suzuki approach.

Read books suggested by the teacher, talk with other parents, and attend parent classes or talks.

2. Create a musical environment.

Play recordings at home on a daily basis, including recordings of current pieces and other good music. Observe lessons of other students; attend group lessons, recitals, and concerts within the Suzuki program and in the community. Make music part of family life by singing, playing with and for friends and family, attending concerts, etc.

3. Learning the fundamentals of playing the instrument and taking care of it.

In the beginning, one parent often learns to play before the child. This helps create the child's desire to play, helps the parent understand what the child is expected to do, and gives the parent first-hand knowledge of the challenges involed in learning to play.

4. Attending lessons with the child and assisting with practice at home.

You need not be a trained musician in order to be a good "home teacher". With the teacher's guidance, the parent helps the child with all aspects of learning the instrument. The parent pays careful attention at the lesson so that s/he can follow the teacher's instructions at home during the week.

5. Creating a total environment of affection, support, encouragement, and understanding.

Work with the teacher to provide an encouraging environment for the sake of the child.

The most important ingredient for success is the parent's willingness to devote regular time to work closely with the child and the teacher. This requires a commitment from the entire family and may mean rearranging some family priorities in order to receive the full benefits of participation in a Suzuki program.