Expanding the Vision at the 2008 Conference

Young violinists perform in the Latin American Suzuki Ensemble at the 2008 SAA Conference

Image by LOCATION IMAGES/iDream.tv

“Expanding the Vision” was the theme of the Suzuki Association of the Americas’ 13th Biennial Conference held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, May 23-26, 2008. A highlight of the Conference was the performance by the Latin American Suzuki Ensemble, which brought into focus the breadth of our vision for Suzuki throughout the America. 30 Latin American students of violin, cello, guitar, piano, and recorder were selected by audition from Suzuki programs throughout Latin America, to put together a performance that would showcase the progress of Suzuki education in Latin America.

Schools, programs, and private studios throughout the country raised over $20,000 to assist with the effort, airline miles were donated, and Shar Products Company assisted with a sponsorship. Supportive Minneapolis area teachers and families hosted the families and wonderful new friendships were formed among Suzuki students who shared music as a common language. The performance of the Latin American Suzuki Ensemble is available to view on the SAA website: www.suzukiassociation.org

Suzuki Association of the Americas, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit membership organization, founded in 1972. As the largest member of the International Suzuki Association, the SAA guides and supports Suzuki education in North, Central, and South America. In addition to awarding scholarships and support for teachers in the US and Canada, the SAA of the past ten years has provided significant scholarship and teacher training support for teachers attending Suzuki festivals in Argentina, Peru, Mexico, El Salvador, Colombia, and Brazil. Generous support from teachers, families, Suzuki friends and businesses continues to make this outreach program possible on continuing basis. See the SAA website for more information. In addition, Latin American activities may be viewed at www.metodosuzuki.org