Society

The Society for Talent Education (STE) Edmonton is a non-profit society offering Suzuki Method lessons in violin, viola, cello, bass, guitar, flute and piano.

Founded in 1965, STE was the first Suzuki Method program in Canada. STE started with two teachers from Dr. Suzuki’s school in Matsumoto, Japan, who with Thomas Rolston, violin teacher at the University of Alberta, comprised the start-up teaching faculty. Soon cello was added, along with viola and double bass. Guitar was recently added in 2021.

STE boasts a highly qualified faculty under the artistic leadership of our Music Director, Viktoriia Grynenko, D. Mus, University of Alberta.

Mission Statement

The STE is a Board governed organization that provides musical development to children following the method founded by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki. Under the direction and mentorship of professional teachers and parents, in a nurturing environment, every child can develop their innate musical ability to their fullest potential.

Belief Statement

We believe that through the teaching of music through the Suzuki Method, all children can develop sensitivity and discipline, become good citizens and fulfill their potential as human beings.

We believe that through music, children can:

  • Develop their fullest potential
  • Appreciate beauty and harmony
  • Develop confidence and self-esteem
  • Enjoy learning and acquire the habit of lifelong learning
  • Develop a sensitivity and respect for others and for our planet

Purpose

The Suzuki approach is based on the premise that every child can play music from their heart when a nurturing environment is provided. Every child has talent. The task of teachers and parents is to help develop that talent. This is the reason Dr. Suzuki called the movement he founded in Japan in the 1940’s the “Talent Education Movement”.

The purpose of the Suzuki approach is to foster musical development of the child as an important part of the child’s general development into adulthood. Technical proficiency and musical sensitivity go together to develop their skills as a music student. The goal of the teachers is to build a sense of community through the love of music and to develop self-esteem in a learning atmosphere of mutual commitment and respect.

Supplementary Study Options

Apart from our regular group classes, orchestra and chamber music coaching, STE offers supplementary courses to enrich our students’ learning experience. We offer weekly classes in Music Theory, Improvisation, as well as Suzuki and Movement workshops.

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