Programs

Private lessons are offered for violin, viola, cello and double bass with experienced experts each week in a 30- 45- or 60-minute private lesson. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced students are all carefully placed with the most appropriate instructor to meet a student's goals. Group classes are included as part of the lesson.  Instruction is based upon the methods and philosophies of  Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, Paul Rolland, Kurt Sassmanshaus and Mimi Zweig.   Parents are an important part of the early years of study; they attend all lessons and support daily practice.

Early Start Academy explores the concepts of the educational philosophy of Shinichi Suzuki, which applies the mother tongue approach to music study. Students learn to play a string instrument as they would learn to speak language by listening and imitating with the reinforcement of parents and teachers. Parents attend lessons with children and assist with practice at home. 

Teachers utilize a wide range of pedagogy unique to each instrument based on the needs and age of the student using a variety of traditional and nontraditional methods.

Group classes will focus on listening, technique, artistry, performance and leadership skills and will utilize a variety of repertoire and foundational materials. Classes may include audition success for students participating in the youth orchestras, or Region 2 and SC-All State Orchestra. Technique and Etude classes are offered to intermediate and advanced students. 

Musicianship: Instructors ill introduce students to a variety of ways to recognize musical symbols, listening and pre-music reading and rhythmic skills. Teachers may decide at their discretion to utilize their own curriculum based on a teacher's area of expertise. 

Chamber Music meaning "together," is a musical conversation between two-ten players in a small group setting. The most popular form of strings chamber music is the String Quartet, 2 violins, viola and cello; however, incredible music is written for all combinations of instruments, ranging from duos, trios and even octets. Piano, winds, and strings together is also a popular combination introduces chamber music at a young age to encourage musical and artistic independence while building confidence and leadership skills. 

Academy students may enroll in the Academy String Orchestra after one year of playing experience in addition to group/chamber music classes. (Age 7 and up)

Throughout the school year the Carolina Academy for Strings  presents a wide range of masterclasses, residencies and workshops often provided by world class performing and teaching artists.  The Preparatory string students will be invited to observe these opportunities for free unless otherwise indicated. (Please see the Special Events Calendar)

Students will have the opportunity to continue their musical studies based on teacher availability. The Fine Arts center also offers a summer intensive for students interested in attending the CAS in all of the arts areas.  The Chamber Music Society of Greenville also presents concerts during the summer by world class string quartets and chamber ensembles. (Please see the Special Events Calendar)