The Bay of Plenty's youngest and most talented cellists, violinists and pianists are taking to the stage at Otumoetai College this weekend.

The New Zealand Suzuki Institute Bay of Plenty Branch is proud to present its annual showcase at the Otumoetai Performing Arts Centre, based at the college, this Saturday, from 3pm.

Suzuki Institute cello teacher Therese Ahlers says a fantastic programme has been planned which feature composers like Breval, Schumann and Bach, plus traditional folk tunes.

'All our students in the Bay of Plenty will be performing and they are extremely hard working musicians who strive for nothing but excellence,” she says.

'Students as young as five all the way up to about 16 will perform and it's encouraging and an absolute joy to watch them on stage performing.”

The ‘Suzuki Method' was created and developed by Japanese violinist and teacher Dr. Shinichi Suzuki during the 1950s.

It is based on the concept that by listening and imitation children can learn to speak any language – and play music too without having to read music first – from the age of three.

Therese says throughout the year the students are offered numerous opportunities to practice their art in front of audiences.

'We try to offer our students as many opportunities to perform in front of audiences, as the more you do it the easier it becomes.

'We will be presenting some lovely music for all music lovers and we'd love to show the community and families how talented our students are.”

The Suzuki Bay of Plenty Branch annual concert takes place at the Otumoetai Performing Arts Centre, Otumoetai College, this Saturday, from 3pm. For more information visit www.suzuki.org.nz