Our Suzuki Program was founded in 1980 by Trudy Gildea. 

We remember Ms Trudy with many fond memories and sincere thanks for her over 40 years of dedication and hard work to foster, teach, and encourage the teachers and students in our Suzuki Program.  She was great supporter of the Arts in our community.

MISSION STATEMENT:
Our goal is to have a string program that introduces music to children at an early age which continues to nurture and develop their desire to play and perform over the years until the student is prepared to go to the college level.

We strive to create opportunities for young people to appreciate and pursue excellence in music by fostering, developing and promoting the talent of young musicians.

*Initial observation along with the Suzuki Parent-Teacher-Child method of learning, encourages successful progress and positive understanding of the repertoire.  This approach to learning is demonstrated at the private and group lessons and reinforced at the home practices. 

*We have a great parent board and dedicated teachers that contribute to the quality of our program.  Both children and adults participate in our Suzuki Program.

SUZUKI STRINGS IN OUR COMMUNITY:

The Suzuki String Program performs in concert at the CAC in December and May each year for families and guests. 

Teachers hold student recitals each year.

Students perform at pilgrimage homes, assisted living centers, churches, banquets, fundraising events, and weddings. 

Our Program also performs annually at the Market Street Festival and members of our Advanced Ensemble perform at the Junior Auxiliary’s Pilgrimage Ball. 

Many of our advanced students audition and if chosen, participate in the Belhaven All-State Orchestra and the Tupelo Symphony’s Youth Orchestra each year. 

Teachers and selected members of our Suzuki Program perform with the Starkville-MSU Symphony Orchestra.

For Inquiries please email: diane.e.ford@gmail.com or lsandifer9039@gmail.com