ABOUT US

The Pineland Crescendo Tour Group is a collaborative outreach project of the Pineland Suzuki School of Augusta, ME. Our name reflects both place and purpose. Pineland Crescendo evokes the pine trees of Maine and Matsumoto, Japan, connecting us across continents, and celebrates our students’ growth in skill, character, and the peace and beauty they bring into the world through music.

The tour group was founded in 2022 by educators Lori Scheck and Betsy Kobayashi of Pineland Suzuki School (Maine), Aimee Briant of Crescendo Suzuki (New Jersey), and Carlough Faulkner-Carroll of Crescendo Suzuki (Massachusetts), who came together through their shared connection to the New England Suzuki Institute (NESI). Joining them for the upcoming Japan project is NESI director Yasmin Vitalius. This collaboration brings together experienced educators and young musicians to create a journey of growth, connection, and shared musical expression across cultures.

The ensemble is made up of dedicated Suzuki violin, viola, and cello students from Maine, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. This vibrant group unites young, passionate musicians on a journey in the language of music, where they connect with one another, embrace cross-cultural experiences, strive for excellence and peace, and inspire the next generation.

The group’s inaugural project was a highly successful four-day tour to New York City in April 2023. During this tour, the students had the opportunity to rehearse together, experience the city's vibrant arts scene, and showcase their skills. They also participated in inspiring masterclasses with master teachers from NYC, which allowed them to deepen their musical knowledge and grow as performers. The tour not only enhanced their appreciation for music but also provided invaluable learning experiences that laid the foundation for the group’s continued growth and future endeavors.

​In March 2024, the Pineland Crescendo Tour Group took part in an inspiring weekend workshop with Nick Kendall, a member of the renowned ensemble Time for Three, in the Boston area. This workshop provided the students with invaluable insights and mentorship from a professional musician, further enhancing their technical and expressive abilities. During the weekend, the students participated in a recording session with Bedford Cable Access Television, which gave them the chance to experience the recording process and capture their performances. In addition, they gave public performances, sharing their hard work and passion for music with the local community. These experiences further enriched their musical journey, combining education, performance, and real-world exposure.  

​Looking ahead, the group is currently focused on raising funds for an ambitious international tour to Japan in summer 2026. This tour will take the students to the birthplace of the Suzuki Method, where they will collaborate with Suzuki teachers and students, deepening their understanding of the method’s rich history and its global impact. This tour promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the students, allowing them to connect with the international Suzuki community and further develop their musical skills in a cross-cultural context.

The Pineland Crescendo Tour Group continues to inspire young musicians by providing opportunities for artistic growth, cultural exchange, and lifelong memories. Their dedication to excellence and collaboration reflects the core values of the Suzuki Method and their commitment to fostering a love of music that transcends borders.