Upon enrolling in the Black Hills Suzuki School, the parent normally begins a six to eight week parent education class, which includes reading resource materials, paricipating in class discussions, learning to play the beginning pieces on the instrument, and observing lessons and classes. Following the parent class, the child begins classes where s/he will use a box instrument and dowel bow for several weeks before "graduating" to the real instrument and bow. This class stays together through the end of the school year, learning and polishing basic skills on the instruments.

Upon completion of the first year class, the student will be integrated into the regular program, which includes placement in a teacher's studio for private lessons, in a group class, and in a performance class. Students are expected to participate in the public school orchestra program as soon as they reach the appropriate age.

Private lessons are scheduled weekly for twenty or thirty minutes, depending on the age and level of the child. Group classes are usually held weekly in five-to-six week trimesters throughout the school year. Group lessons give students the opportunity to practice new techiques and to review musical repertoire in a class setting.

Performance classes are small group lessons in which students perform for one another, parents, and a teacher. The class, under the guidance of the teacher, discusses each performance and gives the sudent helpful suggestions. Performance classes are held four times during the year.

Students perform in at least one of four solo recitals each year. An all-school group concert is presented during the spring. Students are given many performance opportunities through service and community organizations, tours, and home and book recitals. A weekend workshop provides an opportunity for students to work with master teachers from around the country right here in Rapid City.

Each year, the School sponsors the Black Hills String Retreat which integrates "traditional" and Suzuki-trained students in a music camp setting. Clinicians of the highest caliber work with campers in group classes, master classes, and orchestras. The String Retreat takes place over five days during the month of August.