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SEMSAThe Southeastern Minnesota Suzuki Association is old by American Suzuki standards. Teachers here began working with the method in the mid-1970's. A public school teacher, Georgia Daniels, was first to experiment with the new ideas coming out of Japan. In 1984 a group of teachers met to plan a workshop for area music students. SEMSA was formed to secure funding for that event. Over our twenty-five year history, we
have sponsored over sixty honors recitals, teacher recitals, parent
workshops, and field trips to the Twin Cities to hear orchestra concerts
and operas. Our biennial workshop, Gasshuku, focuses the community's
attention on special topics like the Dalcroze method, chamber music,
accompanying and concerti. For the November, 2009, Gasshuku, we have
commissioned a chamber work by nationally known composer, Catherine
McMichael. Students will study the art of composition, compose their
won original pieces and premier McMichael's newest
work.
SEMSA students have performed and
competed all over the state. Nationally known teachers have visited
Rochester to work with our students. We co-sponsor and help fund
community events such as the Young Musicians of SE MN (a recital series
for teenage musicians) and the Rochesterfest Fiddle Contest. We
participate in many celebrations and fundraising events.
Our Board of Directors is composed of parents
and teachers. Our teachers operate independent studios,
setting their own fees, policies and calendar. We enjoy the mutual
support of our organization for group lessons, honors recitals, workshops,
and social
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