The Lab School: Strings will provide instruction in violin, viola, or cello to children 4 to 17 years old.
Students ages 4 to 17 who wish to study the violin, viola, or cello can register now for the University of Windsor Lab School: Strings, a collaboration between the School of Creative Arts and Continuing Education.
The Lab School: Strings provides:
- instruction for young students in string instruments,
- formative pedagogical experiences for SoCA’s undergraduate students through experiential course work,
- opportunities for high school students to gain volunteer hours, and
- a commitment to graduate student education.
It is also a hub for research; supported by SSHRC funding, the work at the lab will examine how students learn and explore the implications of music study on communities.
The Lab School faculty includes adjunct assistant professor Vanessa Mio-Quiring, instructor Michael Karloff assisting at the piano, and SoCA director Bruce Kotowich. The research team includes Dr. Mio-Quiring, professor Sally Bick, and professor emeritus Jonathan Bayley.
The Lab School’s curriculum features group class instruction, theory and master classes, chamber music, and performance opportunities at SoCA.
Lab School students participate in 18 group lessons throughout the year and will engage with leading pedagogues associated with the University of Windsor. Each class is 60 minutes long and structured to develop technical and musical skills, ensemble and ear training, concert etiquette, and participation in master class performance experiences, all of which encourage social interactions with their peers.
As part of the curriculum, students will have the opportunity to perform in a June recital in the SoCA Armouries’ Performance Hall.
In the early stages of music study, students establish the technical foundation on which all future artistry develops. In addition, they become engaged in their learning, set personal goals, acquire an increased sense of self-efficacy, and develop lasting friendships with peers who share similar interests. A priority of the school is to nurture the overall well-being of every student and benefit the wider cultural well-being of our community.
Two classes will be offered starting in January: Beginner and Intermediate. Registration details are available on both the SoCA and Continuing Education websites. The cost is $275 per student, with a 20 per cent discount for an additional child and other discounts available.
—Susan McKee