Suzuki Music Program

Founded in 1992, the MNjcc Suzuki Music Program offers music education for all ages in a supportive, non-competitive community. Artistic Director Kate Shaner leads the program alongside Artistic Director Emeritus Gretchen Paxson Abberger. Their legacy is honoured through this fund, which provides financial assistance for Suzuki families, and participants in choirs and instrumental ensembles, supports free Seniors Holiday Concerts by covering musician fees, and offers professional development opportunities for Suzuki instructors. Your donation helps ensure that their vision, accessible, high-quality music education for all, continues to thrive. 

Register For Suzuki Music
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About the Program

Ages & Programs

  • Early Childhood (0–5 yrs) – Sunday classes
  • Core Instrumental (3.5–18 yrs) – Violin, viola, cello, guitar
  • Adult Programs (18+)

‍What Students Receive

  • Weekly group classes and private lessons (arranged with teacher)
  • Orchestra and ensemble opportunities (by level)
  • Chamber music for advanced students (Book 4+)
  • Guest artist workshops and multiple performances each year
  • Community concerts and recitals

Schedule‍

  • Date: Tuesdays, 4:30–7:30 pm
  • Season: Sept 16, 2025 – June 9, 2026

Registration‍

  • Group and ensemble registration, now available
  • Private lesson fees arranged directly with the teacher
  • Sibling discount: 10% per child

Rates and Fees

  • ‍‍Group + Ensemble: $1,320 / 30 weeks
  • Group Only: $675 / 30 weeks
  • Ensemble Only: $675 / 30 weeks

Parents are encouraged to consult their private teacher before registering. Fore more information please direct inquiries to Artistic Director Kate Shaner kates@mnjcc.org

‍

2025-2026 Class Dates
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The Wichin Paxson Abberger Music Fund

The Wichin Paxson Abberger Music Fund at the MNjcc honours two long-serving and deeply cherished community members whose commitment to musical learning has shaped and strengthened our shared musical life. Since 1995 Gretchen Paxson Abberger has helped thousands of children experience the life-changing benefits of the Suzuki Method. More than just learning music, this approach fosters discipline, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning, setting students up for success in all areas of life.  

Their legacy in honoured through this fund, which provides financial assistance for Suzuki families, supports free Seniors Holiday Concerts by covering musician fees, and offers professional development opportunities for Suzuki instructors. Your donation helps ensure that their vision, accessible, high-quality music education for all, continues to thrive.

Make a contribution to the Gretchen and Harriet Fund today.

Donate Today
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Register for programs

Children & Family Programs

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Swim Lessons

The MNjcc’s swim programs have set the standard for excellence in swim instruction in downtown Toronto.

Swim Lessons
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Registered Fitness & Recreation Programs

Our Children & Family Athletic and Recreation Programs are built to energize, inspire, and bring families together through active, joyful experiences.

Registered Fitness & Recreation Programs
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Jewish Family Programs

At the MNjcc, Jewish family programming is more than just a collection of events — it’s a pathway to connection, meaning, and belonging.

Jewish Family Programs
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JCamp

Discover JCamp — where every summer day is packed with fun, friendship, and discovery!

JCamp