The Foundations of Athletic Voice: the Suzuki Voice Method Maura utilizes and expands on the core teaching of the Suzuki Voice Method which she learned from its founder, Païvi Kukkamaki, in Finland. The Suzuki Method itself is based on the philosophy that every child can learn – regardless of innate ability or "talent." Shinichi Suzuki believed that talent could be “nurtured” and did not have to exist in the child beforehand. To nurture this talent and to teach the child, the Suzuki Method encourages the student to listen, imitate and repeat what is heard. Each child is different and may take a longer or shorter time to learn a musical piece, but each child can learn. The method works with the individual child and does not presume that every child will learn in exactly the same way. Maura's Athletic Voice Program (AVP) uses the tenets of the Suzuki Voice Program (SVP). Maura teaches her students how to use their bodies as an instrument by honing their core muscles and teaching them to subtly engage their diagram muscles to obtain power, tone and resonance. Maura uses balance balls, exercise bands, scarves, and other tools to create the necessary muscle memory to support the voice.
Growing with Suzuki Voice Since Suzuki Voice treats and cares for the body as an instrument, regular lessons help children as they grow and change. By teaching children and young adults how to stand tall without tension and to use their voices without strain or inhibition, Suzuki Voice also aids children in developing self-confidence. Students are encouraged to perform from a young age so that singing in public becomes natural and easy. This ability will help them through their school years and into adulthood.