Elementary Strings Available to All Fifth Grade Students

what is elementary strings?

All fifth grade students in Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) have the option to participate in the strings program at their school! The Elementary Strings program provides students an outstanding and unique opportunity to learn to play an instrument. Students select an instrument (violin, viola, cello, or bass), learn how to care for and hold the instrument, play many songs, and perform for their family and friends. Strings class is a year-long commitment and students will be expected to continue with the class through June 2021. Students who enroll will receive a strings grade on each report card.

Who can participate?

All fifth grade students have the option to join strings class! No prior musical experience is necessary.

What are the differences between the violin, viola, cello, and bass?

Please watch these demonstration videos for each instrument provided by orchestra students from Charles J. Colgan, Sr. High School.

How will Elementary Strings be taught virtually?

Strings continues to be available during the first quarter while PWCS is all virtual. Our strings teachers have numerous tools and techniques to engage students and teach virtually. Class schedules will vary and depend upon the schedule set up by your child's school. You can expect for strings class to involve live lessons on Zoom along with independent work that students will complete in Canvas. Many strings classes will begin with live instruction the week of September 28, 2020.

How much does Elementary Strings cost?

There is no cost to participate in the class; however, each student must have an instrument to play. A limited number of instruments are available to rent though your child's school and will be distributed based on need. Students who qualify for a fee waiver may rent an instrument from the school and have the instrument rental fee waived. All information on renting a school-owned instrument will come directly from your child's strings teacher. Rental of school-owned instruments is subject to availability. Instruments may also be rented from local music stores.

We're interested! How do I sign up my student?

If you'd like to sign up for strings, please complete this form. The strings teacher from your child's school will contact you with further instructions.

Enrollment Form

Questions?

If you have additional questions regarding the program, please contact the strings teacher at your child's school. Contact information for all strings teachers is listed alphabetically by school below.