Programs
What we teach, and why it works.
The path
OPSA is built around the immersion-based Suzuki approach, which works best when students start young — ideally between ages 4 and 6 — though we welcome beginners of any age. From there, students progress through the standard Suzuki violin repertoire, each at their own pace, with some going on to competitive youth ensembles, competitive summer programs, and college auditions along the way. Progress is measured against each student's own growth, not against classmates.
What is Suzuki?
Suzuki taught that every child can learn music the same way they learn language — through immersion, repetition, and encouragement, not pressure. At OPSA, every student progresses at their own pace, technique is built systematically, and parents are part of the learning process, not spectators.
How lessons work
Individual + group, every week.
Every OPSA student takes both a private lesson and a group class — not just one or the other. The private lesson is where technique gets built one-on-one; group class is where students play together, learn from watching peers ahead of them, and build the ensemble skills a private lesson can't teach on its own.
- Private lessons: 30 minutes for beginners, lengthening to 45–60 minutes as a student is ready — decided individually, not by a fixed book or age cutoff.
- Group class: weekly, grouped by level
- Recitals: twice a year — strongly encouraged, not required. We support nervous performers step by step so it feels like a positive milestone, not a requirement.
See some past performances
Hear our students and teachers play — then keep watching on YouTube.
Watch the full playlist on YouTube (opens in a new tab)Meet your teachers
Meg Lanfear
— Founder & Director; tenured violinist, Elgin Symphony Orchestra; SAA-registered teacher trainer
Elizabeth Huffman
— Assistant Director; OPSA faculty since 2012; Assistant Concertmaster, Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra
Angela Thompson
— Director of Admissions & Enrollment; 15+ years teaching; SAA Distinguished Young Teacher Award, 2024
FAQs
Does my child need any musical background to start?
No. Most students begin without any experience.
Do we need our own violin first?
No — don't buy anything before you talk to us. We'll walk you through instrument decisions on your initial phone call.
How involved do I need to be as a parent?
Very, especially early on. Parents actively learn alongside their child from the very first lesson, daily practice happens at home, and a designated “Suzuki parent” attends every weekly lesson with the student.
What is the difference between the lesson and group class — do we need to attend both?
Yes, every student takes both — the lesson builds technique one-on-one, group class builds ensemble skills.