Important information

Post date: Sep 24, 2009 12:46:13 AM

Pre-twinkle parents – Please come to the first class on Sept. 9, 3:30 at South Parish Congregational Church. You and your child are also most welcome to observe the young musicians playing.

Scholarships – Scholarships are available for anyone who needs financial assistance with group classes, workshops and summer camps. We believe that these experiences are so beneficial and such an integral part of the Suzuki experience that we do not want anyone to miss because of financial considerations. Deadline for group classes is Oct. 1. Deadline for chamber music scholarships is Sept. 3. Deadline for workshops and camps is at least one month before it starts. The application form is on the website www.pinelandsuzuki.org

Cello and viola scholarships – We need more viola and cello students!!! If you would like an instrument rental scholarship, please apply for Ken Cobb Memorial Scholarship. Violins, violas and cellos are available.

Group class –Group class is usually but not always every other week. Please write the dates (attached to this letter) carefully on your calendar. We expect everyone to come every time. Only sickness and unavoidable conflicts are valid reasons to miss.

Benefit Concert – This year’s Benefit Concert will be Sunday March 25 at Messalonskee HS in Oakland. It is the twelth annual Benefit Concert. We will celebrate the friendship between Japan and the US, particularly as Japan is the birthplace of the Suzuki Method. PSS tuition would be much more if we did not have this big fundraising adventure! It is not too early to be thinking of businesses who might like to advertise, people you would like to invite, or jobs you would like to do.

Trip to Japan and International Conference Spring 2013 - Yes! We are indeed planning a trip to the International Conference in Matsumoto, 2013. Details at meeting on Sept. 9.

Parent volunteers – To give more time for teachers to focus on teaching your children, we need your help! Thank you to the many parents who have already been very generous with their time. Among others, we need help with holiday party in December, straightening up after group classes, planning parent group/discussions, co-ordinator or co-co-ordinators for the Benefit Concert. Sign up at group class.

Parent Group/Book discussion – to be determined. In the meantime, read or re-read Dr. Suzuki's inspirational book Nurture by Love.

Parent Playing Class – Ellen Gawler will be teaching a class for parents who would like to play together and get some valuable feedback. $50, 5:00-5:45 on group class days. You should be able to at least play Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.

100 Day Challenge – If you complete 100 days of practice in a row by December 11, we have a special prize for you! (And the best prize will be how much better you are playing!!!) Start on September 1st and 100 days will be complete by December 9!!!