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ESMA’s Suzuki Cello Teacher is Elizabeth Gergel.
Elizabeth’s Teaching Philosophy
In Elizabeth’s Suzuki cello studio, the primary goal is to share a love and appreciation of music with each student. In a sensitive and compassionate fashion, she will tailor her specific goals and teaching strategies to the individual student’s needs and learning styles. Learning is a two-way process, and in this studio, every lesson is as much learning for the student as it is for Elizabeth.
“I think that Miss Elizabeth is a great cello teacher, who is very talented. I am learning a lot from her each week.”
— Katherine P.
More Than Just a Cello Lesson
When you and your family attend Suzuki cello lessons with the Eugene Suzuki Music Academy, you get much more than just a weekly private lesson. Here is a list of some of the services you will receive when you enroll:
- Private/Semi-Private Cello Lesson
- Group Class
- Parent Education
- Studio Recitals
- Suzuki Book Graduation Recitals
- Individual Parent Support
- Parent Library
- Music Events
Private/Semi-Private Suzuki Cello Lessons
This is what everyone thinks of when they think of “music lessons”. This is a once-a-week Suzuki cello lesson where individual attention is given to the student and their musical advancement. Very few educational opportunities dedicate individual attention to each student.
Students will learn…
- How to play their instrument
- How to problem solve
- How to reproduce musical pitch, both with their instrument and their voice
Lessons also teach basic music theory, composition, improvisation, study skills, time management, note reading, and music appreciation. A student can expect to learn in a rigorous yet fun and relaxed fashion. Elizabeth most values helping the student to love music.
Our music lessons focus on the Suzuki repertoire, but other styles can be incorporated for students interested in other musical genre.
“I think she’s a good cello teacher because she makes up good exercises, and I’m always getting better. She’s very good at cello, and she’s good at explaining what things are wrong and what things are good.”
— Iestyn D.
Group Class
Once a week, students will have an opportunity to play with their peers in a social environment. Group lessons reinforce what students have learned in private lessons. In addition to reviewing material, the focus will be note reading and how to play in an ensemble.
We custom-mix group classes by age and skill level. This way students both play among their peers, yet students of varying ages and skill levels can work together to grow as students, musicians and people.
Parent Education
Through our website, lessons, social media, email list, and other offerings, we provide regular support, practice tips, and other advice to aid families on their ongoing musical journeys.
Studio Recitals
At least 3 times each school year we have an opportunity to celebrate our hard work through a recital. Recitals are special occasions where students play with a piano accompanist and experience what it is like to perform alone on stage. Recitals are generally held in October, February and May.
ESMA students are required to play in at least 2 recitals per year.
Suzuki Book Graduation Recitals
Graduation recitals are a celebration of progress from a pre-determined level. Graduation recitals differ from the recitals described above in that they consist of only one student. Every part of the family is often part of the musical learning effort, and graduation recitals give the family a chance to recognize and celebrate that effort. Graduation recitals follow more of a free-form recital format, are usually held in the student’s home, and are attended by family and friends.
Individual Parent Support
Teachers are available by phone and email to answer your questions and to provide you with support, advice and motivation for their child’s music education.
Parent Library
Eugene Suzuki Music Academy maintains a lending library to help you expand your knowledge of music, Suzuki, practice, how to work with your child, and other topics. A number of different publications will be available, including trade publications such as the Suzuki Journal, and various books on the Suzuki Method and learning cello.
Music Events
At ESMA we believe it’s important to share music with the greater community. We encourage students to join us in the joy of making music with various music events throughout the year, attending area musical performances, and more.
“Ms. Elizabeth is a fabulous cello teacher! She makes lessons fun for our daughter. Positive reinforcement and a focus on correct techniques are part of all lessons. We highly recommend Elizabeth!”
— Debra P.
