Starter Strings

The Ladder of Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestras Ensembles

Starter Strings (beginner)

Junior Strings (2nd year)

Preparatory Orchestra (musical fundamentals and ensemble skills)

Concert Orchestra (string technique and preparation for Symphony Orchestra)

Symphony Orchestra (full wind/brass/strings, flagship performing group) 

Research-backed Benefits of Strings Education

Increased focus and attention

Fine motor skills and not a screen-based activity

Building of friendships and social skills through learning and performing with others

Huge benefits in teamwork and citizenship from playing in ensembles

Creativity, self-expression, pride, and self-esteem

Ability to find an immediate social group by joining a community orchestra with shared interests

Learning and brain benefits, including math skills and preventing Alzheimer’s and dementia 

Tuition

$200/year, 25-30 annual lessons (depending on start date and holidays), approximately $7-8/class

Financial Assistance

Full tuition assistance is available for all who need it. The ISYO also has a small inventory of instruments for students for whom instrument rental would represent a significant financial barrier. For more information, contact Jackie Mitra at [email protected].

Instrument Rental

We highly recommend renting, rather than buying, instruments, as kids will move through various sizes and need to switch instruments regularly. The Music Shoppe is the primary source for rental instruments in town: with repair insurance included (highly recommend for people of young ages!), violins and violas rent for $25/ month, cellos for $37/month. 

Please register and get your rental instrument before the first class meeting, if possible.

Required Class Materials

Instrument, case, bow, and resin - we recommend rental (these usually come together as a package)

Sound Innovations for Strings - Book 1 (about $10 - make sure to get the book for your instrument!)

Shoulder rest (violin and viola need one - $10-$15)

Foldable music stand ($10-$30)

Handkerchief or very soft cloth

Folder for papers/music

Pencil with eraser

Performances

Starter Strings classes will have two exciting performance opportunities this year! Our Starter Strings Showcase will be on Saturday, January 25th: each class will participate in one of the three performances at 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm. Our Spring Showcase concert will be on Sunday, April 27th at 4pm in the UIS Performing Arts Center (with the entire rest of the ISYO program and the UIS Orchestra!).

Questions? Contact Jackie Mitra at [email protected].