The Peabody Young Pianists program is based on the teaching principles of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki and other major pedagogical philosophies. Initially designed for the entry level young child, it also meets the needs of the beginning older student. This approach is based on the understanding that children learn music in the same way they learn their native language: through listening, imitation,repetition, and a rich motivational environment created in the home.

Parental involvement is an important component of the Suzuki philosophy. Parents are required to attend individual instruction and to act as a coach at home practice. This can help assure that the “Suzuki triangle” (teacher, child, parent) is highly effective in your child’s experience. Individual instruction is scheduled on a one-to-one basis between the student and the instructor.

In addition to the individual instruction, each student is assigned to an Enrichment Class that meets once a week. Beginning music theory, ear training, movement, and the opportunity to practice performing in a safe and supportive environment amongst one's peers, make PYP enrichment classes a necessary and vital component of our program. Enrichment classes meet at the Towson and Downtown Campuses. Because Enrichment classes are limited in size, early enrollment is strongly suggested.

Each child must be interviewed by program coordinator Laura Garvin prior to registration to determine placement for both individual instruction and Enrichment Classes. Upon placement, the student will receive a form which must be presented to the registrar before the registration process can proceed. To schedule an interview, please fill out the Interview for Placement application. Students are placed on a first-come basis.

Summer placement dates will be posted in  March, 2012.

Individual Instruction

The total tuition per semester for the Peabody Young Pianists program is based on the cost of individual instruction and the tuition cost for the assigned Enrichment Class.

Enrichment Classes

Enrichment Classes are an essential component of the PYP program. Students enrolled in PYP individual instruction participate in an Enrichment Class each week. Ear training (solfége and singing), introductory theory and note reading, finger coordination exercises, rhythm drills, listening, music history, performance with faculty feedback, and a basic overview of corresponding Suzuki books are some of the topics that are covered during the year. In addition, each child is given the opportunity to perform at his or her respective level in some small way every class. First year students will be placed in the appropriate class upon acceptance into the program.

A $15 non-refundable activities fee per semester is included in tuition cost. Students will receive a certificate upon completion of the class at the end of the spring semester.

Classes are scheduled according to student need and are subject to minimum enrollment requirements. Should a class not meet these requirements, your child will be placed in a class of the same level meeting at another time.

Placement in an Enrichment Class is mandatory for students accepted for individual instruction. The program coordinator (entry level students) or your private teacher will inform you regarding placement. Class placement is not based on book level. Minimum of four students.

Twinkle – Andante

Twinkle – Allegretto

Happy Farmers – Brisk

Happy Farmers – Merry

Minuet

Advanced Musicianship/Performance 1*

Enrichment for Older Beginners*