The WKU Summer String Institute is a concentrated week of study for violin, viola, cello, and bass students ages 4 – 18. Enrolled students will participate in master classes, group instruction, orchestral study, concerts, and musical enrichment on the campus of Western Kentucky University. The Institute features two courses of study:
– Twinklers: a half-day session for young beginners
– A full-day session for elementary through high school age students
The teaching faculty of the Summer String Institute includes WKU music faculty members and guest artist teachers. The Institute offers all students the valuable opportunity to deepen their knowledge of string playing in an engaging and exciting environment.
Twinklers – Half-Day 9:00am – 11:30am
Violin or Cello
Enrollment in the Twinklers – Half-Day is open to brand new beginners and students studying Suzuki violin and cello in Books 1-2, Ages 4 and older. SSI is designed to be a family experience and parents are encouraged to attend classes with their child and help them prepare for each days lessons. For brand new beginners, instruments can be rented from Royal Music for the week of the Institute.
Young Musicians – Full- Day 9:00am –3:30pm
Enrollment in the Young Musicians – Full-Day is open to elementary through high school students who play violin, viola, cello and bass. Daily instruction will include lessons (in masterclass format), group classes, orchestra rehearsals, and music theory enrichment classes. Full-day session includes lunch. Students enrolling in this session need to have a minimum of 1 year of experience and be proficient reading the notes on all 4 strings of their instruments.
Additional opportunities for Young Musicians
Chamber Music Intensive
Study and perform chamber music in a focused and collaborative with SSI Students and Faculty
We are excited to offer this optional program withing the Young Musicians program. Selected students will rehearse chamber music (3 to 6 players) with fellow students and SSI Faculty. They will have daily coaching sessions with SSI Faculty members. Additionally, SSI faculty will collaborate with the students in these chamber ensembles, and will result in a performance at the Finale concert.
Admittance into the Chamber Music Intensive is BY AUDITION ONLY. On the registration form, select the box expressing your interest in auditioning. Auditions will be held on the first day of SSI, and students are to prepare 3 minutes of music.