Beautiful Tone, Beautiful Heart 

After completing the first year class, the student will be integrated into the regular program, which includes placement in a teacher's studio for private lessons, in a group class, and in a Master class. Students are expected to participate in their school orchestra program as soon as they reach the appropriate age.

Private lessons are scheduled weekly for thirty minutes, forty-five or sixty minutes, depending on the age and level of the child. Group classes are usually held weekly in four-to-five week trimesters throughout the school year. Group lessons give students the opportunity to practice new techiques and to review musical repertoire in a class setting.

Master classes are small group lessons in which students perform for one another, parents, and a teacher. The class, under the guidance of the teacher, discusses each performance and gives the student helpful suggestions. Students are assigned to a master class according to their age and their playing level. Master classes are held on four Tuesdays during the school year at the First United Methodist Church on Kansas City Street.

Students perform in one of three solo recitals each year. An all-school group concert is presented during the spring. Students are given many performance opportunities through service and community organizations, tours, and home and book recitals. A weekend workshop provides an opportunity for students to work with master teachers from around the country right here in Rapid City.

Each year, the School sponsors the Black Hills String Retreat which integrates "traditional" and Suzuki-trained students in a music camp setting. Clinicians of the highest caliber work with campers in group classes, master classes, and orchestras. The String Retreat takes place over five days at the end of July.