History of Suzuki Graduations: Dr. Suzuki would wake up at 4:00 a.m. each day and listen to hundreds of tape recordings sent to him from all over Japan. Dr. Suzuki incorporated a Suzuki Graduation System where students, when they reached certain playing levels, would record several polished review pieces, and in return receive Dr. Suzuki’s constructive comments about their playing. This was a celebration of accomplishment. It was never a “pass or fail” situation since Dr. Suzuki trusted that a teacher would only have a student prepare and submit a recording when they were musically ready. Dr. Suzuki also knew it was the process of preparing these recordings where the real learning and progress took place.
Suzuki Graduation in Southern Utah: In an effort and wish to continue Dr. Suzuki’s vision of excellence, this recital strengthens our programs collectively and individually, and gives students an opportunity to play their polished pieces in a beautiful setting, with often new musical friends unified in their commonality of music. Each student will receive a signed certificate for completion of their levels. Non-SAU members submit a $5 participation fee. SAU members receive a replica of Dr. Suzuki’s watercolor and participation is included in their membership dues.
Rehearsals will start at 5:00pm, likely beginning with the most advanced pieces and ending with violins on Gossec Gavotte. Plan to have students dress in best dress and expect they will stay to the end of the recital, to hear all the performances and receive their certificates. Where possible, we encourage families and young musicians to attend even if they are not graduating from a particular level this year, as it gives them motivation to work for next year.
Below you will find pieces that correlate with the graduation levels. Students should be prepared with revised editions. If you see a need for changes or additional levels, please let us know. It is not uncommon for students to perform in more than one level in a year. Many teachers have students prepare recordings in preparation for this recital. You will know your student is ready to perform these pieces when they are in “review mode” rather than newly learned; playing up to the CD tempo, with accuracy and ease, concentrating on musical intent with beautiful tone.
| Instrument | LEVEL 1 | LEVEL 2 | LEVEL 3 | LEVEL 4 | LEVEL 5 | LEVEL 6 |
| Violin | Gossec Gavotte | Bach Bourree | Vivaldi, am, mvt. 1 | Vivaldi, gm, mvt. 1 | Corelli, La Folia | Bach, am, mvt. 1 |