Dr. Karuko Kataoka "In the 21st century we will be sustained by these young people who have acquired enduring ability in the arts and who will continue to thrive." |
Piano BasicsPiano Basics Foundation was founded to promote the teaching of Dr. Haruko Kataoka. Working as Dr. Suzuki's accompanist she was able to observe his teaching and began to research piano pedagogy according to Dr. Suzuki's philosophy. She was instrumental in developing the Suzuki method for the piano. Suzuki piano teachers have felt her influence worldwide. For forty-eight years she continued to research and refine how to teach fundamental skills using natural techniques to develop ability and produce beautiful tone. Her own students are now teaching in Matsumoto Japan carrying on her work there and teaching workshops in the United States. Her innovative ideas have fully implemented Dr. Suzuki's philosophy that all children can develop musical talent if their ability is nurtured in a supportive environment. Her book Sensibility and Education contains stories of her childhood and teaching experience. She relates through these experiences the importance of recognizing and protecting children's natural ability to learn through their senses. "Please don't destroy the natural balance of children's bodies and the natural sensibilities they possess!" Her book How To Teach Beginners is available for free to read directly online. It is an invaluable resource for teachers and parents. The main points of the pieces in Suzuki volumes 1 and 2 are discussed. The Piano Basics Newsletters are also available for free online. They are a wonderful archive of articles Dr. Kataoka wrote for the Talent Education Institute, which were translated into English. She also recorded the Suzuki Piano Volumes 1-3. These are the recommended recordings for those books. The Atlanta Area Suzuki Piano association has a wonderful Dr. Kataoka memorial with photos and speeches. |
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