Beginning Strings

Would you like to learn a string instrument? If so, Beginning Strings is for you! 

This program is for students who wish to study violin, viola, cello, or double bass in a supportive and engaging musical environment. Curriculum includes weekly group classes at six after-school locations throughout the Roaring Fork Valley, performance opportunities, and private or small-group lessons. Our team of teaching artists inspire students to develop a love for music through string education, performance, and music literacy in a social environment. Many students engage in the program for multiple years and develop a strong foundation of both musical and interpersonal skills.

Open to students in grades 2-5 and through middle school for those with past Beginning Strings experience. Instrument and tuition scholarships are available. Students are expected to commit to classes for the duration of the program, from mid-October through early May.

After-School Program Cost: $295

Cost includes: 

• 19+ weeks of 90-minute classes
• Starter supply pack (rosin, shoulder rest or rock stop, finger tapes, method book, music stand)
• A series of private or small group lessons (lessons alone are valued at $120!)
• At least one performance on the Harris Concert Hall stage
• Snacks during classes
• Students are responsible for the cost of an instrument (rented or purchased). Some AMFS-owned scholarship instruments are available.
• The cost of this program is heavily subsidized by AMFS donors. Thank you, donors!

Instruments

• Students can select to learn violin, viola, cello, or double bass through the Beginning Strings program. Follow these links to see each instrument demonstrated by our friends at The Harmony Project: violin, viola & cello.
• All students should have an instrument ready for the first day of Beginning Strings class. Students will receive detailed information about securing an instrument when they have been accepted to the Beginning Strings program.
• Determine what size instrument your student needs with these helpful videos: violin, viola & cello.

Advanced Opportunities

2024-2025 Performance Opportunities

• December 9-12, 2024 - AfterWorks Winter Informances | at your beginning strings school!
• February 26, 2025 - Beginning Strings Solo Recital | Harris Concert Hall
  • Select students invited to participate based on work in private lessons
• April 25, 2025 - Strings Showcase Concert (Carbondale / Glenwood Springs) | Glenwood Springs High School
• April 30, 2025 - Strings Showcase Concert (Aspen / Basalt) | Harris Concert Hall
  • Beginning Strings classes end after the Showcase Concerts

To learn more, please contact:
Lindsay Bobyak, Manager of Education and Community Programs
Email | 970 205 5055