Course Structure and Venues
Most pupils start Young Strings aged 5 years and progress through all three stages until they are 12 years old.
If places on the course become available, they are offered to children on the waiting list.
The course breaks down into three stages as follows:
Course Structure
Stage 1: Saturdays, 9am – 10.20am, Manchester High School for Girls
This is a foundation year for children who are 5 years old by 31 August in the year of entry. During this year, children attend two 40 minute classes per week. One class focuses on pitch and rhythm training through singing (Kodály) and the other on developing the musical, physical and emotional/social skills required to be a musician through whole body through movement (Dalcroze).
Stage 2: Saturdays, 9.00 – 11.00am, Manchester High School for Girls
At the start of their second year at Young Strings, children choose to begin learning violin, viola, cello or double bass. For two years, they have three forty-minute classes per week: an instrumental lesson in a small group (usually 2-4 children), musicianship and ensemble. In addition, they will have occasional individual lessons with their instrumental teacher.
Stage 3: Thursdays, 4.30pm – 6.30pm, RNCM
This stage of Young Strings offers a unique opportunity for emerging string players to develop strong musicianship and ensemble skills. There is no instrumental tuition at this stage. Pupils play in a large string orchestra, have lessons in Dalcroze and Kodály, and are given the opportunity to take part in chamber music, masterclasses and performances.
Teaching Venues
Stages 1 and 2 are taught at Manchester High School for Girls, Grangethorpe Road, Manchester M14 6HS
Stage 3 is taught at the RNCM on Oxford Road. This is an inspiring environment for young musicians and offers excellent facilities.
