STRINGS
2011 / 2012 Calendar
Fall Quarter: September 6 - December 4
Winter Quarter: December 5 - March 11
Spring Quarter: March 12 - June 11
Please click here for full 2011-2012 String Department Calendar
The String Department prepares students to achieve technical proficiency on their instruments. The comprehensive curriculum emphasizes the following learning sequence: balanced posture, beautiful tone production, accurate intonation, musicianship skills and learning a sequential body of repertoire.
Violin, Viola, Cello - The Suzuki Program
The Conservatory's string curriculum for violin, viola and cello is based on the Talent Education method developed by Shinichi Suzuki. All students follow the Suzuki curriculum, which includes weekly individual lessons of 30, 45 or 60 minutes and a weekly group class on Monday nights. Parents are a key component to the success of the Suzuki method and their presence in lessons and group classes is strongly encouraged. Through the Suzuki method, students may begin instruction as young as age 5.
Group classes for violin and viola students meet Monday evenings between 6:00 and 8:00. Group classes for cello students meet Monday evenings between 5:30 and 7:00.
String Bass
Individual lessons are available in 30, 45 or 60 minute lengths, depending on student need and teacher recommendation.
String Orchestra
Students playing the violin, viola, cello or string bass at an intermediate level or above may audition to participate in the Conservatory's String Orchestra. This ensemble meets on Mondays from 5:00 to 7:00 pm.
Achievement Week
Towards the conclusion of each school year, all non-adult students enrolled in private instrumental study will participate in a juried performance evaluation. This jury offers students the opportunity to demonstrate their progress over the past year, and to receive feedback from a faculty panel. Departmental juries take place over the course of one week, and are scheduled in lieu of a lesson.
Recitals
All Suzuki string students are required to participate in String Department solo recitals and in Suzuki group concerts.
Additionally, the Conservatory regularly hosts student recitals throughout the school year. Students are recommended for these performances by their individual instructors.
Fees
Quarterly tuition for violin, viola, cello (includes a weekly individual lesson and a weekly group class):
30 minute lessons $588
45 minute lessons $768
60 minute lessons $948
Quarterly tuition for double bass:
30 minute lessons $480
45 minute lessons $660
60 minute lessons $840
String Orchestra $240 / $216*
Cello Suzuki Class $180
*Discount for students concurrently enrolled in individual lessons at the Conservatory.
