It Started With a Dream

Nancy Powers and Tami Melton first met at Blue Lake Suzuki Family Camp in 2011. Nancy, an experienced Suzuki violin teacher, was trying to start her own private studio after relocating. Tami, a violinist and devoted mother of two boys, dreamt of bringing a Suzuki program to their town. With the unwavering support of Immanuel Lutheran Church, Nancy and Tami joined forces and established the very first Suzuki school in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan.

Under Nancy's mentorship, Tami underwent extensive training and obtained multiple Suzuki certifications, eventually allowing her to offer lessons as well. Their teaching has provided dozens of students in the mid-Michigan area the opportunity to grow their technique, perform at various local venues, and place competitively in district & regional string competitions. While Nancy retired from teaching in 2022, Tami continues to follow in her stead.

In 2018 Tami received training from Sharon and Dorothy Jones, founders of the Suzuki Early Childhood Education (SECE) with the aim of expanding the studio's music education programs to children ages of 0 and 3. Suzuki Sprouts is the only SECE certified group music class available in mid-Michigan.

The Suzuki Music School of Mt. Pleasant is committed to perpetuating the ideals taught by Shinichi Suzuki, who focused on growing young people into empathetic and compassionate individuals through the medium of music. Through providing a solid foundation of good violin technique in an environment that is both challenging and positive, students develop what Suzuki referred to as "a loving heart". This encompasses not only a love for music, but also an awareness of beauty and care for the people around them, a sense of self-worth, and an appreciation for hard work.

With this philosophy as our ultimate goal, our studio aims to empower young people to not only become skilled musicians, but also compassionate individuals who contribute positively to society.

Our Mission

Meet Our Teachers

Tami Melton

Violin & Suzuki Sprouts Instructor

Paige Rothaus

Suzuki Sprouts Assistant

Though she's always loved playing the violin, it was Tami's desire for her own children to get a Suzuki music education that motivated her to found The Suzuki Music School of Mt. Pleasant in 2011. Tami holds certifications to teach Suzuki Books 1-5 and Suzuki Early Childhood Education (SECE), and constantly seeks out new opportunities to expand her knowledge and improve her teaching. Having supported her three sons' violin education for the past 15 years, Tami brings a unique perspective as a long time Suzuki parent. She is also an avid singer and opera fanatic. She actively collaborates and advocates for music and performing arts in her community, and serves in leadership roles for several music related non profits in the mid-Michigan area.

Paige Rothaus is our Suzuki Sprouts classroom assistant. She has a teaching degree from St. Cloud State University (MN) and has worked in Early Childhood Education for over 20 years. Paige has extensive experience studying and restoring ancient Greek and Roman art. One of her greatest joys has been helping children find ways to enjoy the fine arts. She is currently an Early Child Educator at Art Reach of Mid-Michigan and runs the Wee Wednesday program.