My First Violin Class

Ages 3-5 years old

Looking to start music lessons in a nurturing environment? My First Violin Class is designed for preschoolers ages 3-5 years as an intermediary step between infant/toddler music classes and our formal violin program. Have fun and build your musical community while learning foundational violin skills along with your child.

Join the Program
A wooden violin resting on a reflective black surface, with its bow laying beside it.

What to Expect

  • A predictable, step-wise program that interweaves Suzuki Early Childhood Education with early Suzuki violin pedagogy, commonly known as the “Pre-Twinkle” phase.

  • Develops ear training through listening, singing nursery rhymes from around the world, and playing rhythm games.

  • Developing gross and fine motor skills necessary for playing a stringed instrument.

  • Learning to share, take turns, and respect others.

  • Develop a love of spoken language, reading, and reflection.

  • Access to videos and recordings to practice at home.

  • A rich network of parent support. It takes a village to raise a young musician!

  • Invitation to all of the Suzuki Violin Program events.

Learn more

Upcoming Sessions

For more information, please fill out our inquiry form to schedule a phone call with the director.

Fall 2026 (10 weeks)

Dates: 9/13, 9/20, 9/27, 10/4, 10/11, 10/18**, 10/25, 11/1**, 11/8, 11/15
Time: 3:45–4:25 PM
Class Size: 4/10 spots remaining
Location: Neighborhood Church 301 N. Orange Grove Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91103

** These dates may be at a different location or have slightly different start times.

 FAQs

  • In the Suzuki philosophy, learning music is a bonding experience to be shared between the parent and child. We build a relationship between the teacher, parent, and child that is meant to last for many years. It is ideal that the same caregiver attends all sessions with their child.

  • No! And I would recommend waiting until you can work with the teacher on buying or renting your first instrument. Students will receive all the practice materials they need through the class until they are ready for an instrument.

  • Milestones can be a better indicator than age when considering if your child is ready for this class. We recommend that children start when:

    • Potty trained.

    • They can follow 2+ step directions.

    • Can draw a circle.

    • Ability to string beads onto a thread.

  • Every child and instrument is a bit different. Children generally start violin lessons at the age of 4, but occasionally a student can be ready earlier, especially if they have been enrolled in this class before starting lessons.

  • If you have more questions don’t hesitate to email us at jandmstrings@gmail.com or call/text (508) 542-2131.

A woman with curly hair smiling while playing a guitar and drawing with a colorful marker on a child's arm or hand.
A young girl in a purple dress with ruffles and polka dots on the collar and sleeves smiling as she holds a large pink lollipop, with an adult woman helping her hold the stick.

Seven Principles of Suzuki Early Childhood Educaton

  • Two women and two children sitting on a yellow rug with white patterns, watching a girl playing a wooden xylophone.

    Every child can learn.

  • A woman helping a young girl stretch her legs on a yellow patterned carpet in a room, with the woman's arms assisting the girl and the girl smiling and looking forward.

    Ability develops early

  • Environment nurtures growth.

  • Adults and children sitting on a yellow patterned rug, engaging in a water activity with small blue containers, in an indoor setting.

    Children learn from one another.

  • Young boy receiving a triangle-shaped gyroscope from a woman, with another woman standing nearby in a room with a yellow patterned rug.

    Success breeds success.

  • Two women playing finger-touch game with an infant in a room with a yellow carpet and nearby backpack.

    Parental involvement is critical.

  • Two women and two small children in a room with white cabinets and a yellow patterned rug. One woman is kneeling on the floor, holding a laughing child with blonde hair and a red shirt. The other woman is sitting on her knees, holding a baby with light skin and chubby cheeks, wearing a light-colored onesie. They are engaging in a playful, joyful activity together.

    Encouragement is essential

Register Here

More questions?

A woman with curly hair, sunglasses, and a blue floral dress is holding a bouquet of sunflowers and smiling while posing with a young boy at an outdoor event. The boy is holding a small guitar and a wrapped gift. People are gathered around, some standing and some walking on a street with tents.