touring nationally, rooted in community.
Palaver Strings is a Grammy-nominated chamber ensemble and music school rooted in Portland, Maine.
AS FEATURED IN
The Guardian · Gramophone · Boston Globe · WBUR · Maine Public Radio · The Arts Desk · Musical America
what brought you here?
MUSIC AS CIVIC LIFE
palaver is a music organization. community is what makes it possible.
A palaver hut is a space for community decision-making in Liberia and other West African countries. Our first concerts were benefits for the Liberian Education Fund. We adopted the name to honor this part of our story, and remind ourselves of what we're trying to build — a structure for community, creation, and collaboration.
Read the full storyPALAVER MUSIC CENTER
built by the ensemble. taught by professional musicians.
PMC was founded by Palaver Strings. Students study with professional faculty with robust performing careers. Tuition is sliding-scale, with financial aid built in. Our programs take place in the heart of downtown Portland.
AGES 0–4
Early Childhood Music
PRE-K
Intro to Strings
K-7TH GRADE
After-School Strings
Access is the design, not the afterthought.
COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
music for community.
Our community programs take Palaver outside the concert hall and into hospitals, schools, elder care facilities, and living rooms.
FOR NEW FAMILIES
Lullaby Project
New parents create lullabies for their children with Palaver musicians.
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LGBTQ+ COMMUNITY
Lifesongs Project
Original songs created in partnership with LGBTQ+ community members.
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help keep this going.
Palaver Strings is donor-supported. Your gift keeps the school tuition-accessible and the ensemble performing.