Fall Programs
Offering exceptional strings music education to the youth of Northern Michigan through school strings classes, private lessons, and a youth orchestra program.
Programs
Instrument Rentals
Families are encouraged to rent an instrument rather than buy, especially if the student is not yet ready for a full-sized instrument.
Suzuki Program Information
The Suzuki method is a very unique way of learning music and it is different from the traditional method.
2023 Practice Challenge
The annual Practice Challenge begins on February 6!
Strings Classes
The DGSP offers string classes where students learn to play an instrument, in a group setting, with qualified teachers. Classes are held twice a week in a variety of locations throughout the school year. Classes begin in October.
Instruments
Students may choose to learn the violin, viola, cello, or bass; instrument rentals are encouraged through SHAR.
Ages
Students must be in fourth grade or above to participate and may continue until they graduate from high school.
Levels
Beginner, intermediate, middle school orchestra, and high school orchestra levels are offered at most locations.
Time
Twice a week depending on location.
Locations
Boyne City, Charlevoix, East Jordan, Elk Rapids, Ellsworth, Harbor Springs, Pellston, and Petoskey.
Cost
Classes are offered tuition-free and the only cost is for instrument rental.
Performances
Classes perform in multiple concerts during the year, including a December holiday concert and the program-wide Collage Concert in May.
Suzuki Program
The Suzuki Method is an iconic movement of string education that features private and group lessons. The Suzuki method specializes in teaching very young students by the "mother tongue" method, with a strong emphasis on parental involvement and learning music by ear. Students may begin as young as four years old. Suzuki lessons are offered for a moderate cost and scholarships are available for those in need.
Instruments
Violin, viola, cello, and bass.
Ages
Students can start as young as four years old.
Time
Private lessons once a week with the expectation that students will practice daily.
Locations
Charlevoix, Petoskey, Bay Harbor, Elk Rapids, Boyne City, and Beaver Island.
Cost
$25 (30 minutes)
Group Classes
Free group classes, held at the Great Lakes Center for the Arts on Saturday mornings, supplement private lessons.
Performances
Students perform in two recitals each school year and also participate in the program-wide Collage Concert in May.
Traditional Private Lessons
Private lessons are the most efficient way to teach the art of instrument playing. A master teacher is able to customize the lessons to address each student’s unique abilities and needs. Lessons take place once each week with the expectation that the student practices what they’ve learned on a daily basis at home.
Instruments
Violin, viola, cello, and bass.
Time
Once a week with practice expected on other days.
Locations
Charlevoix, Petoskey, Bay Harbor, Elk Rapids, Boyne City, and Beaver Island.
Cost
$25 (30 minutes), $35 (45 minutes), $50 (60 minutes).
Performances
Students perform in two recitals each school year and also participate in the program-wide Collage Concert in May.
Dorothy Gerber Youth Orchestra
For students who desire a more advanced level of music-making, the DGYO is offered weekly. DGSP teachers coach students to play in the context of an orchestra, where each instrument section plays independent parts for an exciting musical experience.
Levels
Advanced students who have graduated from the intermediate level; students from around the area are invited to apply for acceptance in the the DGYO.
Time
Monday evenings, 6:00-8:00PM.
Location
Great Lakes Center for the Arts
Performances
Multiple concerts, including performances at GLCFA, Castle Farms, and Venetian Festival.
