What is String Project?
UNT String Project is a low-cost community music program that offers Suzuki-based instruction in string instruments (violin, viola, cello, double bass, and harp). Students in Levels 1, 2, and pre-orchestra attend two group classes each week. Parent/Child Beginners, Youth Orchestra and Eclectic Styles attend a once a week rehearsal. All levels offer an optional private lesson package. String Project is a teacher-training program, all classes are supervised by a master teacher.
What is String Project's mission?
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To give undergraduate and graduate music education students hands-on, supervised experience in teaching, administration, and leadership as they pursue their degrees.
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To involve more school-age children in learning to play string instruments.
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To provide a low cost, high-quality music education experience to the surrounding community.
Who are the teachers?
String Project is a teacher training program. String Project teachers are UNT music education undergraduate and graduate students. Master teachers Kelsey Nussbaum, Terra Warger, and Sam Flippin are experienced educators and doctoral students at UNT. The director is Dr. Elizabeth Chappell, a National Board Certified Educator and a 17 year veteran of middle school orchestra teaching.
What is the age range of the students?
Students range from 5 years old all the way up to adults.
What level should my child be in?
Level 1 is for beginners in their first year of playing. Students entering with playing experience should email a sample of your child playing their favorite piece and send it to us. Please see the 'Contact' page.
When is String Project?
String Project begins the Tuesday after Labor Day (please see exact dates on the 'Schedule' page). You choose your date and time when registering online. Private lessons are individually arranged with instructor. Link to the String Project Calendar HERE.
How do we drop-off and pick-up our kids?
There is a drop-off zone in front of the music bulidng on Ave. C. We ask that you pull up as far as you can to drop-off and pick-up your children (even as far as Chestnut St.). DO NOT park and leave your vehicle as cars behind you will be blocked from moving. Teachers will wait for your children outside and wait until all the children have been picked up. Private lesson pick up/drop off will be arranged with individual teachers.
Do you have to be enrolled in your school orchestra?
Yes, but only if that option is offered. String Project is meant to enhance the school orchestra programs. Students too young to be enrolled in a school program and homeschool students are welcomed as well.
Are scholarships available?
We do not give out many scholarships but you can contact us with any concerns.
Does UNT provide instruments?
We provide a very limited number of instruments in various sizes. Please inquire of the Director of UNT instrument availability.
You can either buy or rent an instrument and we advise you to rent as children grow quickly. We recommend The Luthier Shop in Crossroads which supplies rentals that cost between $18-$30 a month for a violin and more for larger instruments.
Do students need to practice?
In order to progress, students will need to practice daily. Level 1 and Level 2 students should practice 10-15 minutes a day. More advanced students should spend 20 to 30 minutes in practice each day.