The Case for Having a System

In a previous post about when I introduce higher position fingering in the Suzuki repertoire, I discussed my system for introducing positions, and then I asked the question "why have a system at all"?

It is possible to teach a student without having a "system" for introducing various concepts, however, I think there is a danger of overlooking a crucial point without a system in place. It is also possible to teach "outside" the system, by introducing a concept earlier.

Here are some basic important topics that teachers should develop a system for teaching:

• when to put the thumb "inside" the frog
• when to begin learning to read music
• when to introduce higher positions
• when to teach vibrato
• when to introduce spiccato
• when to add music theory assignments
• when to add supplementary materials
• when and how to celebrate a book graduation and the requirements
• when to accept a new student or let one go

What goes into the making of a system? Here are the questions I asked myself when I developed my systems for teaching the above skill topics:

1. When will I introduce the topic? At what stage of the Suzuki or other repertoire will I begin teaching this topic?
2. How will I introduce it? What are the steps I will follow to teach this topic?
3. What materials will I use when I introduce it? Will I use different materials depending on the child's age or readiness to learn this topic?

Have a wonderful rest of the weekend!