Suzuki Playdown FAQ
What is a Suzuki Playdown?
In a Suzuki Playdown, students perform selections from each Suzuki book, starting with the most advanced level and ending with the first piece in the book (the Twinkle variations!).
As the pieces progress, more students join in, and by the end of the concert the stage is full of a community of musicians of all ages and levels. It is an incredible showcase of the progression of learning and the joy of sharing a common repertoire! The Suzuki repertoire is shared throughout the world, so while two students may not be able to speak the same language, they can make beautiful music together.
What are the benefits of a playdown?
Playdowns preview what comes next for younger students, who get to play side-by-side with advanced students, and hear their pieces elevated to a new level.
For older students, playdowns are a great opportunity to review older pieces while adding in new skills, as well as be a leader for the younger students!
Since the Suzuki method is built on review, students also get to hear their tone and playing develop as they add new techniques in older songs, while reinforcing foundational skills. As Suzuki said, ““Knowledge is not skill. Knowledge plus ten thousand times is skill.” Reviewing pieces year after year in a playdown helps students to truly master their repertoire!
They also help prepare students for Suzuki Graduations (read more about graduations here)!
How can I prepare for a playdown?
Listen to the Suzuki recordings. Hearing our review pieces played beautifully and musically will help us to create that same tone and artistry! Daily listenings will also help us fully internalize our pieces, both old and new. Read more about the benefits of daily listening here!
Join our Suzuki Group Classes. In these classes, we learn ear training, how to play in a group, and work on developing and elevating review pieces.
Review pieces by practicing along with our Suzuki Graduation Videos (Violin)! Guitar and Ukulele Videos coming soon!
