Outreach String Project

The EMU Violin Outreach Project began in 2002 as an effort to reach low-income students with string instruction because there is no such instruction offered in Harrisonburg City or Rockingham County schools.

Forty-eight students are currently enrolled (May 2007) and take lessons at one for four locations: Stone Spring Elementary School, Waterman Elementary School, Keister Elementary School, EMU campus.

Of these students, fifteen are Latino, thirteen are Caucasian (and born in the United States), ten are from Russia or the Ukraine, five are from the Middle East, two are from Africa, one is from India, one is from Asia, and one is African American.

Students study the Suzuki Violin method and are taught by Maria Lorcas, Jessie Trainum, and Megan Tiller. Parents are encouraged to attend lessons. The students have participated in solo recitals and group concerts throughout the year on the EMU campus and in the community. Instruments and instruction are provided at a greatly reduced rate.

The project is funded in part by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the Arts Council of the Valley. The city schools partner with the project to provide after-school transportation and other support.

Music Gallery, a local Harrisonburg music store, provides many of the supplies needed for the students.

Additional donations of money and instruments are sought by Sharon Miller, project director.

For more information about this program contact .