Suzuki School
Nurturing string education for young children, with a parent by their side.
The private Suzuki lesson lies at the heart of the learning process. Because a young child needs structure and support, a parent comes to every lesson, takes notes, and becomes the child’s home practice partner, so the goals of each lesson can be repeated daily at home. Lessons run weekly and last 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the child’s age and level.
How to Enroll
Choose Your Program
Fall term runs September 13 – December 6, 2026 (11 weeks); there are no lessons the week of November 23–27 for Thanksgiving. Play-ins are September 17 and October 22 at 5:00 pm, and the term recital is December 3 at 6:00 pm. Private lessons are scheduled individually with Ann Marie Jones, Kim Teachout, or Michael McLean.
30-Minute Lessons
Weekly 30-minute private lessons with a Suzuki teacher. Ideal for younger or newer students.
45-Minute Lessons
Weekly 45-minute private lessons with a Suzuki teacher. A good fit as students grow in age and ability.
60-Minute Lessons
Weekly hour-long private lessons with a Suzuki teacher. Best for more advanced students.
String Group Class
Violin and cello group classes on Thursday afternoons, complementary to private lessons and equally important to a child’s development. Classes run by level: Pre-Twinkle, Early Book 1, Late Book 1, and Book 2 & 3. Parents attend with their children. Prerequisite: private lessons with any teacher.
Your Instructors
Ann Marie JonesSuzuki TeacherAnn Marie Jones teaches private Suzuki lessons and group class with the Community Music School, working with students of all levels.Read bio →
Kim TeachoutSuzuki TeacherKim Teachout teaches private Suzuki lessons with the Community Music School and co-directs the Suzuki program, working with students of all levels.Read bio →
Michael McLeanSuzuki TeacherMichael McLean teaches private Suzuki lessons and group class with the Community Music School, drawing on more than three decades of Suzuki teaching, performing, and composing.Read bio →Scholarships are available for all programs. Apply online with the form below. Questions? Email CMS@tcphil.org or call 231-947-7120 ext. 5.