When the Bermuda Suzuki Association's annual autumn music workshop opens tomorrow, it will mark the 20th anniversary it has hosted the event ? a milestone Chas Arnold, a Suzuki instructor at the Bermuda School of Music Suzuki, describes as "thrilling".

"Each year the workshop has provided an opportunity for approximately 100 of Bermuda's cello, piano and violin students to train with some of the world's most renowned music teachers. Bringing instructors to Bermuda allows a greater number of students to participate as we eliminate the costly expense of studying overseas," Mr. Arnold said.

"Our experience has shown that this workshop has proven to be highly motivating and exciting for the children involved. Parents have used words like 'enlightening', 'exciting', 'motivating', 'electrifying' and 'involving' to describe the experience."

Typically, participants in the workshops are students of local instructors who are part of the Bermuda Suzuki Association ? Hywel Brown, Ann Brown, Jyrki Pietila, Tiffany Fox and Hilary Lightbourne ? as well as Suzuki instructors from the Bermuda School of Music: Laura Appert, Chas Arnold, David France, Lisa Hollis and Jennifer Sheridan.

"This year's line-up of overseas teachers reads like the Who's Who of the music world," Mr. Arnold said. "They include long-time guests Dominick and Linda Fiore from the Hartt School in Connecticut, Ed Kreitman from Chicago, Vera McCoy-Sulentic from Southern Illinois University, Jane Kutscher from Cincinnati, and Wendy (Amazing) Valerio, teaching either her 'motivational speaker' or 'evangelist's' version of music."

In addition to the comprehensive Suzuki programming, the workshop will also include a master class series for traditional students, expanded orchestral classes, and ? for the first time ? guitar.

"The Suzuki programme is more than just learning an instrument and music tuition. It is a way of life," Linda Cox, chairperson of the Bermuda Suzuki Association said. "The philosophy of the Suzuki method ? love, sharing and inclusion ? are lessons which our children carry for a lifetime."

In a special message to parents, Mrs. Cox urged each of them to participate fully in the programme. "Don't be shy about turning to other parents when you are presented with specific challenges with your own children.

"You will find support and creative solutions that you never dreamed of. Welcome to the Suzuki family, we are thrilled that you have embarked on a journey of discovery that will give you and your children gifts that will last a lifetime."

The workshop takes place at Saltus Grammar School from November 10-13, and the public is welcome to "stop by and observe".

As a special treat, the faculties of the Bermuda Suzuki Association's workshop and the Bermuda School of Music will give a free recital at City Hall on Sunday, November 12 at 7 p.m.