Violin - Piano - Cello - Guitar - Musical Theatre - Early Childhood -Adult Cultural programs
About Our School
ABOUT SCOTIA SUZUKI SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Founded in 2017 by Christy Hodder, Scotia Suzuki School of Music was born from a simple but powerful belief: all children can learn music. What started as a vision has grown into Halifax's leading Suzuki music school, serving over 250 students with a team of 25+ dedicated teachers.
TEACHING EXCELLENCE
Teachers at Scotia Suzuki School is certified by the Suzuki Association of the Americas. But certification is just the beginning. Our teachers participate in ongoing professional development, regular workshops, and collaborative learning to continuously refine their craft.
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What sets our teachers apart is their commitment to meeting each student where they are. We don't have a "one size fits all" approach. Our teachers adapt their methods to each child's learning style, pace, and goals.
OUR LOCATION
We're located at the Lebanese Cultural Center at 6141 Chebucto Road in Halifax, with 37 convenient parking spaces. Our bright, welcoming studios provide the perfect environment for learning and performing.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
At Scotia Suzuki School, we believe music education should be joyful, inclusive, and accessible to everyone. We welcome students of all abilities and practice frequencies. Whether your child practices daily or just a few times a week, whether you can support them at home or need us to help you learn to provide that structure, we believe every student deserves exceptional teaching and the chance to thrive musically.
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This isn't just philosophy—it's our daily practice. We've seen countless students blossom when given patient, skilled instruction in an environment that celebrates effort and progress at every level.
OUR PROGRAMS
Early Childhood (Ages 0-3): Suzuki Early Childhood Education (SECE) classes introduce the youngest learners to music through parent-child bonding, movement, and play.
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Children's Programs (Ages 3+): Private and group lessons in violin, piano, cello, guitar, and musical theatre using the Suzuki method.
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Teen Programs: Age-appropriate instruction that respects teenagers' growing independence while maintaining the supportive Suzuki approach.
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Adult Community Arts Centre (ACAC): Music, dance, art, and pilates classes for adults ages 18+. Because it's never too late to start something new.
ABOUT OUR FOUNDER
Christy Hodder holds a Bachelor of Music Education (Math minor) from Acadia University and has completed advanced Suzuki training in violin and early childhood education including most recently in-person training in the WEE violin method in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Before founding Scotia Suzuki School, she performed professionally for eight years as the lead in the Celtic band Lochaber and taught music in various settings.
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Christy's vision for Scotia Suzuki extends beyond the lesson studio. She created the Practicing Pro Academy, a comprehensive resource platform with over 100 blog posts supporting parents with home practice strategies, and regular practicing resources for teachers and parents around the world. She has founded the Nova Scotia Youth Ambassadors, a traditional & classical music performance ensemble giving students advanced opportunities to share their music.
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE SCOTIA SUZUKI SCHOOL
1. Exceptional Teaching: Suzuki Association certified teachers with ongoing training.
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2. Inclusive Philosophy: We welcome all students, all abilities, all ages and practice schedules.
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3. Performance Opportunities: Regular recitals, group classes, concerts, and special events.
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4. Community Focus: We're not just a music school—we're a musical family and community.
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5. Proven Results: Students gain confidence, skill, and a lifelong love of music.
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6. Flexible Programs: From ages 0-3 through adult, we serve the whole community.
​7. Supportive Environment: Teachers, families, and students support each other's musical journeys in a positive, non competitive environment.
