The Genius of Simplicity

The Genius of Simplicity was written in 1982 by Linda Wickes, an orchestral violinist, educator, lecturer, and dedicated string teacher who uses the Suzuki Method®. Her book, the author herself claims, is a rebuttal or answer to the implication from skeptics that the Suzuki Method® is a “shallow simplistic gimmick.” She accomplishes her goal, but succeeds in doing considerably more! Wickes begins her book with an analysis of Suzuki’s philosophy, and continues with chapters entitled: Start Young * Step-by-Step Mastery * Learning by Listening * Group Lessons and Performances * Pedagogy and Technique * Parents and Practicing * Psychology. This book’s most wonderful feature is the depth and breadth of research which has gone into each facet. The culmination of this research is a bibliography of such wealth in a provided reading list for all interested in early childhood education. This book should be read and studied by all teachers, parents, and students of Suzuki as well as all people interested in the growing field of early childhood education.