Grace Notes offered String Ensembles for the first time in 2009, under the direction of Atlanta Symphony violist Lachlan McBane. A Beginner Strings class, Intermediate String Orchestra, and Advanced String Orchestra provide ensemble experience for students of all abilities. An Instrument Fitting (see below) is required for beginners, and an audition (for class placement only) is required for all others.

At each level, we explore different styles of music while working to sharpen skills and technique. We offer opportunities for students to perform, as well as potential leadership opportunities for older students. Unlike public school string students who often have the opportunity to practice together daily, Grace Notes string students work together only once a week, making diligent practice at home that much more important.

Violists, cellists, and bass players are particularly welcome! Or are you a violinist who has considered switching to the viola? Here's your chance!

All students are strongly encouraged to take private lessons whenever possible -- group classes are valuable, but students will progress more quickly with individualized instruction!

Parents who play a stringed instrument (or would like to learn) are also welcome to participate. (A placement audition is required for parents who wish to participate in Intermediate or Advanced levels.)

Please contact Lachlan McBane with questions about the Grace Notes string program. (Please see below for audition & instrument fitting information.)

Beginner Strings is for students with little or no musical training on their instrument, or those trained in Suzuki, but not yet reading music. To participate in Beginner Strings, students must be at least 9 years old and attend an Instrument Fitting. (Exceptions may be made for students younger than 9 if they have already had some private instruction.) The Instrument Fitting is a time for your child to see and try the different stringed instruments under the direction of trained personnel. With the information gathered at this time, we are better able to determine what instrument your child would enjoy playing, as well as what size instrument is appropriate. Every effort is made to ensure your child's success. If you already have an instrument, please bring it to the fitting. See below to schedule an Instrument Fitting.

Parents are required to attend classes with beginning students in order to learn the basics of string playing and to be able to help their children practice profitably at home. Parents may learn to play the violin/viola/cello/bass along with their student for $75 per year!

Required Materials: Instrument & bow, shoulder rest (for violin & viola), rock stop (for cellos/basses), Music Stand, Pencil, Essential Elements 2000 Book 1, 1" notebook with page protectors for music, concert dress.

The Intermediate String Orchestra is generally for students who have been playing for one or two years on their instrument and can read music. This class will continue to polish techniques such as intonation and posture, while working to develop ensemble skills and general musicality. Ear training and rhythm will also be emphasized.
A PLACEMENT AUDITION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL STUDENTS SEEKING TO BE ENROLLED IN THIS CLASS. See below for audition information.

Required Materials: Instrument & bow, shoulder rest (for violin & viola), rock stop (for cellos/basses), Music Stand, Pencil, Essential Elements 2000 Book 2, 1" notebook  with page protectors for music, concert dress.

In late March or early April 2010, Mr. McBane will begin hearing students interested in enrolling next fall. If you would like to drop in on our classes on a Monday this spring to see what we're up to, we would welcome it!  Just send an email to gracenotesstrings@gmail.com.

How Do I Sign Up?

For the Beginner Class, no audition is necessary, but an Instrument Fitting is required (see above).

For Intermediate and Advanced orchestras, an audition is required for placement in the proper group. No particular repertoire is necessary for the audition; students should just be prepared to play a piece they know well.

All Auditions and Instrument Fittings are held at Ronald Sachs Violins at 836 Pleasant Hill Rd. in Lilburn. Visit their website at www.ronaldsachs.com

Times are by appointment only. Please e-mail Mr. McBane at gracenotesstrings@gmail.com to arrange an audition time or instrument fitting appointment.

After an audition or instrument fitting, you should register as soon as possible to reserve a spot in the program. Registration forms are available by clicking "Registration/Tuition" in the Main Menu, and should be mailed to the address on the back, with the Registration Fee.