Music Group Selection
Read below to see which group you think is the best fit for your level of experience and ability. There is always movement the first few classes as people figure out which group is the best fit, and that is okay!
Adagio (Music Beginner) - You’ve never played a musical instrument before. This group is for you! We’ll guide you step-by-step through how to hold your instrument, make your first sounds, and read music at a slow and steady pace. No experience required! Just curiosity and a sense of humor.
Andante (Strings Beginner) - New to strings, but not to music! You’ve played music before (maybe piano, flute, guitar, or choir), but this is your first time with a string instrument. This group moves at a “walking pace,” building on your existing musical knowledge while teaching you the violin, viola, cello, or bass. This is the recommended step up for a Beginner 1 wanting a solid foundation and review at the beginning of the year.
Moderato (Intermediate) - This is the right group if you’ve graduated from Beginner 1 or 2 (or were a faster moving Beginner 1 who kept working over the summer), or if you played a string instrument in the past and are ready to dust off the cobwebs. You remember some basics and want a structured, supportive way to get back into playing confidently.
Allegro (Intermediate-Advanced) - You’ve got experience and you’re comfortable reading music, playing in key, and using more advanced techniques like basic shifting or vibrato. This group tackles more complex music while still doing technique exercises to build on prior knowledge.
Con Brio (Advanced) - You’re a strong, experienced player who is ready to take on more challenging music and ensemble work. You’re comfortable reading independently, playing in a variety of keys, and using techniques such as shifting, vibrato, and more advanced bowings. This group moves with energy and confidence, focusing on musical expression, ensemble precision, and expanding your technical skills. It’s a great fit for players who want a challenge but aren’t quite ready for the demands of Vivace.
Vivace (Upper Advanced) - This group is for highly experienced, confident players who are ready for our most challenging music and ensemble work. Think Brandenburg concertos, chamber music, and advanced repertoire that requires strong independence and musicianship. You are comfortable shifting into upper positions, using vibrato and advanced bowing techniques, reading more complex rhythms and key signatures, and adjusting quickly within an ensemble.