SAM Graduation Performances
One of the primary purposes for the existence
of the Suzuki Association of Minnesota is a graduation process for students.
The development of accuracy in rhythm, pitch, articulation, and musicality are
goals of every fine music teacher. With nurture, review and maturation of playing
skills, students develop technique and musicianship in pieces they know. This
program involves careful preparation and joint cooperation on the part of students,
parents, and teachers. Graduation repertoire for violin is based on Mr. Suzuki’s
selection of pieces from each book. Music for other instruments is comparable.
Students record tapes or CDs in individual teacher studios.
SAM teachers then send all recordings to state coordinators who redistribute
them to different teachers who listen, evaluate, and make constructive comments.
Instruments currently represented are:
Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Piano, Harp, Flute, Recorder, and Guitar.
This program
is open to all students of SAM members.
Students of string and wind instruments perform in groups until reaching highest playing levels. Soloists are chosen to demonstrate highly developed skills and repertoire. Piano students perform solos in recitals.All the many efforts that make up the graduation process culminate in the recitals at Orchestra Hall (Minneapolis) for strings and winds and the College of St. Catherine (St. Paul) for piano. Graduates receive certificates and trophies to celebrate their achievements.
All graduating students must be students of a SAM teacher.
Estimated Graduation Timeline for 2009:
Late February 2009– Teacher information mailing
March 14, 2009 – Grad Recitals: Flute, Recorder, Harp, Guitar, and Strings at Orchestra Hall
March 21, 2009 – Piano Graduation Recitals at Christ Presbyterian Church on Normandale Road in Mpls.
Download a copy of the Graduation Requirements and Event Information from 2008 (New information for 2009 will be posted by January 2009): Document Date Posted Size Format 2008 Details about March 8 Recitals and Rehearsals 2/21/2008 70 K 
2008 Maps and Directions for March 8 2/21/2008 332 K Map of Orchestra Hall Rehearsal Rooms for March 8 2/21/2008 1.1 MB 2008 Graduation Info Packet 12/18/2007 997 K
Pictures from the 2008 Graduation Recitals: