Strings in Schools
Old music, young players, real instruments.
Overview
Strings in Schools takes the quartet into classrooms with a simple proposition: music written five hundred years ago is playable by anyone who can hold a bow. We bring simplified parts, spare instruments and a lot of patience.
A standard visit runs a full school day and ends with an informal performance in which students sit beside the quartet and play the lines they have just learned.
How a visit works
Morning sessions split by instrument, led by one player each — open strings first, then a single Palestrina line learned by ear. Afternoon brings everyone together for a side-by-side rehearsal and a short concert for parents and the school.
Schools keep the simplified parts and a practice recording, so the music can live on in the department after we leave.
Formats
Side-by-side workshop
Sectionals, joint rehearsal and an informal concert.
First lines
An introduction to ensemble playing for beginners.
Teacher twilight
Repertoire and rehearsal techniques for string teachers.