after-school
strings
about the program
After-School Strings provides instruction in violin, viola, and cello to students in kindergarten through fourth grade in the Portland area. We plan to add a new grade level to the program each year, eventually offering instruction to students in grades K-12. Students receive weekly private lessons, group classes, and an instrument to practice at home year-round. The program operates for 25 weeks and follows the academic calendar (October – May).
For current students, click below for this year’s Student and Family Handbook
tuition and fees
To apply for this program, please email Matthew Smith at matthew@palaverstrings.org as capacity is limited. If you have financial need, you may apply for financial aid.
This program operates on a pay-by-scale model, where household income determines tuition costs. Tuition cost ranges from $28 to $280 a month. To see what tuition amount you qualify for, please review our sliding scale below. Tuition includes all classes and lessons, an instrument, and a case.
financial aid
We are committed to ensuring that all interested families can participate in our programs, regardless of their financial situation. Students may apply for financial aid to cover tuition balance. You can apply for financial aid online or mail a physical copy of this application, with supporting documents, to Palaver Strings, 380 Cumberland Ave, Floor 2, Portland, ME 04101
next session: october 2023 to may 2024
When: Mondays & Wednesdays
Where: 380 Cumberland Ave, Portland, Maine
Application Deadline: september 11, 2023
class info:
After School Strings programming takes place twice a week, Mondays and Wednesdays. Programming takes place after school and will vary depending on the instrument. Students are expected to commit to one private lesson (30 minutes for Kindergarten and 45 minutes for first-fourth grade) and one 45-minute group class per week, in addition to regular practice at home.
In these early years, students will focus on learning the fundamentals of the string instrument and how to play in small groups, as well as basic music reading. The course will culminate with a recital in May, where students will share what they have learned throughout the program.
get in touch:
For more information or to sign up for the After-School Strings program, please contact Matthew Smith at matthew@palaverstrings.org or Brianna Howard at brianna@palaverstrings.org
registration
Follow one of the 2 application options to sign up for classes.
1. submit an online application
via the link:
or
2. mail paper application
to the address:
Palaver Strings
380 Cumberland Ave, Floor 2
Portland, ME 04101
For more information or to sign up for the After-School Strings program, please contact Matthew Smith (Managing Director of Education) at matthew@palaverstrings.org or Brianna Howard (Education Coordinator) at brianna@palaverstrings.org
