Guitar Committee
The International Suzuki Guitar Committee is an internationally represented body created and approved by Dr. Suzuki in May of 1986 and licensed by the International Suzuki Association.
The committee adheres to the guidelines set forth in the official "Policies for ISA Instrument Committees" adopted by the ISA Board of Directors on September 11, 1999.
Our Mission Statement
To develop a globally recognized approach to the guitar by adhering to the basic tenants and vision of Dr. Shinichi Suzuki so that children, families and teachers everywhere benefit and, in so doing, realize a better world.
The current committee is comprised of representatives of three recognized regional bodies. They are: MaryLou Roberts, SAA; Elio Galvagno, ESA; Zeah Riordan, PPSA. It is a great honor to be a part of Dr. Suzuki's great legacy. We are pleased that the guitar continues to assume its role in bringing quality music education to the world. It is our hope that our efforts will make a valuable contribution to children and families, enabling a better life for generations to come.
Books Available
Suzuki Guitar School volumes 1 through 9 have been published, along with CDs for each volume and a guitar accompaniment part for volume 1.
Accomplishments
- Developed standardized teaching points for the repertoire
- Developed a Code of Practice for Suzuki Guitar teachers
- Commitment to continue to upgrade guitar page on ISA website
- Finished recording Volumes 8 and 9 of the Suzuki Guitar School
- Published Volume 9 of the Suzuki Guitar School
- International Festival of Suzuki Guitar, California 2008 – Face to face Meeting of ISA Guitar Committee; 70 guitar students and 30 teachers in training; Concerts and master classes with William Kanengiser and Celso Machado
- World Convention – Melbourne 2009 – 60 guitar students & teachers from Australia, New Zealand and USA; commissioned Guitar orchestra composition; guitarists performing in opening concert, daily recitals and finale concert.
Ongoing
Repeated trips of to Australia enable SAA representatives and teachers of PPSA to continue to share professional training developments in the upper levels of the Suzuki Guitar School.
Regular bi-monthly conference calls via Skype.
Future plans include:
- Edit, revise and re–record Books 1 through 4
- Representation at the World Convention - Japan 2013
Publications
All published materials are available at local music stores or by calling Alfred Publishing at 1–800–6ALFRED or www.alfred.com
Regional Committee Members
European Suzuki Association
Elio Galvagno
Harald Söderberg
Raimo Päiväläinen
Nuria Cervantes
Pan-Pacific Suzuki Association
Zeah Riordan
Robert Turton
Marcus Bussey
Jane Darcey
Joanne Wood
Suzuki Association of the Americas
Andrea Cannon
Mychal Gendron
Seth Himmelhoch
William Kossler
Andrew LaFreniere
David Madsen
MaryLou Roberts
Joseph Pecoraro
Suggestions?
The members of the International Suzuki Guitar Committee wish to express our deepest appreciation to those who contribute to this very special effort. Your help assures that children everywhere will continue to thrive and benefit as parents and teachers have always dreamed. The ISGC welcomes comments and suggestions. Please feel free to contact your regional representative.