Piano Continuous Professional Development Course UK

Kataoka Connections - Technique & Pedagogy UK

Dr. Haruko Kataoka, was one of the co-founders of Suzuki Piano, alongside Dr. Suzuki.  She worked alongside him in Matsumoto from 1955 until his death in 1998 and continued to teach teachers and guide students and parents until her own passing in 2004.

I first met Dr. Kataoka m in 1981, and after that studied her pedagogy and intertwined piano technique, during her several subsequent visits to Europe.  I also made three visits to Japan to observe Dr. Suzuki and Dr. Kataoka, each from three months at a time, in 1984, 87, and 1990.  My last lesson with her was in Dallas in 1995, so altogether I worked with her for 14 years.

As I have now been teaching Suzuki for 44 years, my approach has evolved from back then, but at its core are still the ideas of Dr. Suzuki and Dr. Kataoka as I experienced them in Japan.  It’s my hope that teachers can encounter, or re-encounter elements of Dr. Kataoka’s teaching, although second-hand, and that it might help you on your own personal teaching journey.

During this short Continuous Professional Development course, Suzuki teachers can -

- have lessons on Book 1 and 2 of the Suzuki repertoire
- observe some children’s lessons on Book 1
- watch videos of Dr. Kataoka teaching
- explore her approach to piano tone and technique, and the sequencing involved

This exploratory course takes place in our studio in Cambridge, UK and is open to qualified Suzuki teachers from all over the world, as well as those new to the Approach.  Qualified Suzuki teachers will receive an acknowledgment of the CPD from the ESA.

The last day will be spent in the charming town of Saffron Walden, where , in the afternoon our students, ages 4-17, will give a Concert at the renowned 470 seat Saffron Hall, with solos, duets, and two-piano pieces from the Suzuki repertoire and beyond.

The fee is £300 for the 4 days.

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