Who can attend LASI?

Enrollment is open to Suzuki violin, viola, cello, bass, and guitar students of all levels who currently study with a teacher who uses the Suzuki method and materials and has taken Suzuki Teacher Training, with the exception of Young Artist students, who may be studying traditional methods.

We also offer a beginner violin program for students with little to no experience and Teacher Training for those looking to become Suzuki teachers.

I have more than one child - how do I watch both of them?

We strongly recommend each child has a dedicated adult attending with them for supervision and to ensure an adult is present for masterclass. If only one parent/guardian can attend with two children, LASI will make sure that masterclasses are not scheduled at the same time so you will be able to attend both of them.

A second adult is required if you are attending with three or more children—unless one or more of your children are 13 years and older and staying in the Teen Dorm to be supervised by the Teen Dorm Monitor. It is unavoidable to schedule masterclasses that do not conflict with three or more children.

We ask that siblings are able to sit quietly through class so they won’t be disruptive to the students in the class. Faculty have the right to ask families to leave a classroom if a child’s behavior is disruptive.

What’s the age range to attend LASI?

LASI is designed for children ages 4 -17. We also offer Teacher Training programs for eligible adults 18 and over.

Does my child need to prepare an audition?

If your child is in PREP or Young Artist we require a placement video for Chamber Ensemble placement which is due by April 15th. You may register first and then submit the video later on our website.

I have another child who is not taking Suzuki music lessons. Can they attend LASI?

Sibling can take enrichment classes or enroll in the beginner violin program. Advanced students over the age of 13 may be eligible for the Young Artist Program. Siblings attending must:

  • Be enrolled in private music lessons (non-Suzuki/Traditional lessons are acceptable)

  • Meet the minimum class age and level requirements for each enrichment class that they register for.

Does LASI offer meals and accommodations?

Yes! Please visit our registration page to register for meals and dorms by May 15th. After May 15th registration is closed for room and board.

We highly recommend that commuter families purchase a lunch plan. Pitzer College has a delicious and health-conscious cafeteria and accommodate many allergies and requests. The cafeteria is the best place to make friends and socialize with students and families!

Can my child attend classes by themselves?

The program is designed with the understanding that parents will be involved, as they are at home, with lessons, practice, and the supervision of their children. The program is designed as a family experience and it is best to have one adult for each young child enrolled. Parents attend classes with their children and help them prepare for the next day’s classes.

Students under the age of 18 must be supervised at all times. Students 12 years old and younger must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Teenagers 13 years and older, who will be staying on campus but will not be accompanied by a parent, must stay in the Teen Dorm to be supervised by the Teen Dorm monitor. Please see Teen Dorm for more information.

My child has just started lessons - can they attend LASI?

Students just beginning violin can attend the half-day Twinkler Program. Students can join the full-time, Foundational Program once they have mastered all the Twinkle Variations. If your child is still learning the Twinkle Variations or hasn’t added fingers to their pieces yet, they are considered “Pre-Twinkle” and would attend the Twinkler Program.

Please consult with your home teacher if you are unsure which program your child should join.

My teenager wants to attend without me - can they do that?

Yes! Any students who are 13 or older by June 15th and staying in the Teen Dorm may attend classes without a guardian present. They will be supervised by the Teen Dorm Monitors.

Lunch is included in the Young Artist Program tuition. Any students 13 and older enrolled in other programs (i.e. PREP or Foundational) that are commuting and attending institute without a guardian present must purchase a lunch plan.

How should we prepare for LASI?

Students should review the Suzuki Repertoire List up to their current playing level by memory.

At the first masterclass, students should be prepared to play a polished piece as a solo for the teacher.  A technically and musically mature piece will help the teacher assess the student’s needs – pick an old piece that you know really well.

Students enrolled in chamber music and orchestra will receive sheet music by May 15 that should be completely learned by the first day of institute.