About North Coast Strings

North Coast Strings is an educational program of the Museum of Making Music designed as an entry point for adults (21+) who want to learn to play an acoustic stringed instrument (violin, viola, cello, upright bass) or for those who have played in the past but haven't picked up their instrument in a number of years. It is also for any adult who wants to play in a supportive and noncompetitive environment at a level that is comfortable for them.

Free Information Session

Tuesday, September 10, 2024, 7:00pm at the Museum of Making Music
If you’d like to learn more about these groups and take a look at the music for each section, please come to our informational meeting. 

Available Opportunities

The fall 2024 session offers four opportunities:

Beginner 1 - Rehearses on Tuesdays from 4:00pm to 5:15pm
This section is for the absolute beginner who has no experience playing their instrument.

Beginner 2 - Rehearses on Tuesdays from 4:00pm to 5:15pm
This section is for the beginner who has been studying violin, viola, cello, or bass for the equivalent of about a year.

Orchestra One - Rehearses on Tuesdays from 5:30pm – 6:45pm
Considered the program’s intermediate level, this section is for those who have been playing for several years and can read music and play in several positions. Repertoire is chosen with the early- to mid-intermediate player in mind. 

North Coast Strings Orchestra - Rehearses on Tuesdays from 7:00pm – 9:00pm  (with a 15-minute break at 8:00pm)
The NCS Orchestra is considered our advanced group.  Repertoire is played in its original form and is not simplified or adapted.  Professional coaches support each section and help with bowings, fingerings, and technique.  Players should be able to read music and play in many positions.

Rehearsal Schedule

• Tuesdays, September 17 - December 10 (every Tuesday EXCEPT October 15 and November 26)
• Saturday, January 4^th in the afternoon
• Tuesday, January 7th
• End of Session Performances:  Weekend of January 10/11/12

Enrollment Fees

• Beginner 1 — $195
• Beginner 2 — $195     
• Orchestra One — $195     
• North Coast Strings Orchestra – $225

Receive a 20% discount when you enroll in two groups.
Scholarships are available.  Please contact AlisaM@namm.org for more information, or to fill out a scholarship application.

Questions? 

Please contact Carolyn Grant at (760) 304-5809 or carolyng@museumofmakingmusic.org if you have questions or would like more detailed information.