By Payton McIntyre
Pagosa Peak Strings, a youth string orchestra program, is accepting new students until the end of January for the spring semester. No prior experience is required.
Students in the fourth through eighth grades are invited to join us at Pagosa Peak Open School every Wednesday and Friday for five months to explore the beautiful world of orchestral music.
Whether it’s the violin, viola, cello or double bass, students will learn to play alongside friends and build musical skills together in a fun, encouraging environment.
This amazing opportunity has become possible thanks to Stillwater Music, a music nonprofit collaboration that is dedicated to providing accessible music instruction to La Plata and Archuleta county residents.
The program takes place Wednesdays from 3:15 to 4:40pm and Fridays from 1:15 to 2:40pm, at Pagosa Peak Open School in Aspen Village. The program will align with the district calendar, so if there is no school, there will be no class. A calendar with important dates will be sent home with students on the first day.
Registration is through www.orchestra.stillwatermusic.org/classes.
What if my student doesn’t own the instrument they want to play?
Stillwater Music/Be Frank Foundation provides affordable and local instrument rentals and this can be done through the registration link. If registered soon, instrument delivery can be provided, as well. If your student is expected to grow, rentals will be the affordable way to go.
What if my student doesn’t attend Pagosa Peak Open School?
This opportunity is open to all fourth- through eighth-grade students (students in third, and ninth through 12th invited with prior approval) in Archuleta County.
Bus stop #2 for elementary school and bus stop #9 for middle/high schoolers will bring orchestra students to the drop-off location and from there students can walk to Pagosa Peak Open School.
Does this program cost money?
Yes, however the goal is for this to be an affordable and accessible music education opportunity. Need-based scholarships are available — don’t hesitate to reach out if you need financial assistance.
Will I need to buy anything for this?
Instrument rental or purchase will be necessary if you don’t already own the instrument. Essential Elements for Strings will be the book we learn out of, which ranges in price from $9 to $15. A music stand for home use will be encouraged and can be found for $15+.
How could this benefit my student(s)?
- Music can help with schooling.
- Music can help build confidence.
- Music plays a positive role in cognitive development.
But, most importantly, it’s fun.
We are accepting new students until the end of January. Registration is through www.orchestra.stillwatermusic.org/classes.
Let’s build something amazing together — for our students, our schools and our community.