Classes

Student Classes

Core Classes:

Every student will have each of these classes daily. 

Daily Masterclass

Each day, students perform in masterclasses led by our faculty and guest artists. These sessions are designed to sharpen technique, deepen musical understanding, and build confidence on stage. Students learn not only from direct feedback, but by observing their peers.

Group Repertoire/Technique Class

Organized by Suzuki book level, this class brings students together to build strong technique while reinforcing the core Suzuki repertoire.

Pop Class

A highlight of institute!  London harpists Keziah Thomas and Amy Turk will be leading group classes in creating their own ensemble arrangement of a fun pop song which they will perform on our final concert.

Bucket Drumming

Explore the world of rhythm around us through drumming on everyday objects including buckets and trash cans!  Experience rhythm, improvisation, call and response, song form, and music theory in a new and fun way!

Enrichment Classes (choose one):

Arts & Crafts: 

Always a favorite class at institute!  Brooke Smart, a local talented artist and illustrator will be helping the students create different projects every day!

Ukulele:

Our Beginner Ukulele Class is perfect for students who are brand new to the instrument—or just starting out!  Students will learn the basics of ukulele playing, including proper technique, essential chords, and rhythm, all while playing fun, familiar songs they’ll love.

With a fantastic, encouraging teacher guiding the way, students will build confidence and discover just how enjoyable learning the ukulele can be. No experience needed—just bring your enthusiasm and get ready to strum!

So You Want to be a Professional Harpist?:

This class will take an in-depth exploration of all the possibilities of being a professional harpist - whether it's gigging, teaching, playing with an orchestra, etc!  You'll learn from different experienced harpists the pros, cons, and joys of each path and what you can do to prepare now.  Come with your questions, hopes and dreams! 

Teacher Classes

TEACHER TRAINING

This summer we are excited to offer teacher training for Books 2 and 3, and Teaching Strategies!

Fees for Participants and Auditors are the same (see the difference between Auditor and Participant below)

Book 2 (15 course hours) - Mary Kay Waddington

June 22-26, 2026

Tuition: $650

Requirements: 

-SAA membership

-completion of Book 1 training

Book 3 (15 course hours) - Phala Tracy

June 22-26, 2026

Tuition: $650

Requirements: 

-SAA membership

-Books 1 and 2 teacher training, completed in sequence 

-Teaching Strategies course completed (new pre-requisite required as of 1/1/2025)

Teaching Strategies (10 course hours) - Phala Tracy

Beginning January 1, 2025, Teaching Strategies is a required prerequisite course for Unit 3.  This course is designed to guide participants to become more effective teachers.  Strategies supports our SAA teacher community and our collective commitment to lifelong learning. As we continue to practice reflection and self-evaluation, our growth as individual teachers and as a body of music educators will shine in the positive impact we see in our students. 

June 20-21, 2026 at Lyon & Healy West

Tuition: $300

Requirements: 

-SAA membership

-Book 1 teacher training completed

What is the difference between an Auditor and a Participant?

Auditor or Participant:  The tuition fee is the same for both participants and auditors. Auditor status is appropriate when a teacher is unable to meet the course’s attendance, observation or audition requirements. The auditor may play in class only with the permission of the instructor and may not register the course with the Suzuki Association of the Americas. Auditors may only observe their registered teacher training class in addition to all student activities and concerts.

Auditors need to register as soon as possible to reserve a space in the designated class as class size is limited for all classes.