Observation of Group Lessons
The First Stage of Learning at Lauderdale
 

Observing group lessons is the beginning of your Suzuki journey with your child. We require all new families to observe group classes for at least 10 weeks. 

We also invite you to attend our concerts, which are free and open to the public. Upcoming events are listed on our event page.

Observing groups and individual lessons is the best way to learn about the method and your role as a parent. Through observation, you'll gain insight into the Suzuki method and have the opportunity to speak with other parents who have begun learning with us. Your child will begin to absorb some of the beginning concepts and understand how the group classes work so that they'll feel comfortable when they eventually join the class. 

Observing group classes is free for everyone, and you can observe as long as you like. Our beginner's group meets in the Upper Gallery from 4 pm to 4:35 pm. Please note that once enrolled in our programme, you will need to be able to be at Lauderdale House for two classes, beginning at 3.55 pm and ending at 5.30 pm.

Observation is equally important for parents and children, and so we ask that the intended practice parent attend observations and group lessons for at least the first year. Parents should use observation time to better understand the concepts and how the teacher approaches the lesson, gaining insight into creating a positive and effective practice environment at home. 

You are welcome to observe any group class as often as you like, and there is no charge. Observing other groups is a good way to get to know our teachers so that when you are offered individual lessons, you might know who is a good fit for you and your child. You can view the class timetable here.

We wish to stress that the Suzuki method is NOT a group teaching method, and all children must learn with a Suzuki-trained teacher. Each child has weekly individual lessons (usually at their teacher's house), which are supplemented by the group lesson and musicianship classes at Lauderdale. We also encourage parents to observe individual lessons with a teacher, which can be arranged directly with the teacher.

Saskia Louth is the observer coordinator. If you want to observe or want more information, please fill out the contact form.

Please be aware that we often have a lengthy waiting list for individual teachers, and many families have observed for much longer than 10 weeks before being offered a place with a teacher. We do our best to help connect families with teachers as soon as possible, but there is extremely high demand for Suzuki teachers in North London. We advise that once a place is offered to you, you prioritise your lesson time above other activities.