Learn from some of the world’s leading string virtuosos and educators. Under the direction of David Wallace, chair of Berklee’s String Department, you’ll explore a wide variety of string styles, including folk, jazz, bluegrass, classical, old-time, and Celtic. Master your technique on violin, viola, cello, mandolin, harp, banjo, and more. Discover new musical styles and techniques under close guidance.
As a participant in the Global String Program, you’ll become a part of Berklee’s thriving, creative String Department for a full week. Experience the same Berklee that fostered musicians like Sierra Hull, Casey Driessen, and national fiddle champions Luke Price and Alex Hargreaves. The curriculum will include the following:
Styles lab: You will rotate through multiple styles, receiving coaching from various faculty each day.
Theory-in-action labs: You will receive hands-on instruction in ear training and applying theory through your instrument. To build knowledge sequentially, you will have the same group and faculty instructor each day.
Small ensemble: You will play in a small ensemble coached by a Berklee faculty member who is an expert in the specific style the ensemble will study (e.g., Arabic, bluegrass, Celtic, jazz, pop, etc.).
Large ensemble: You will participate in a large ensemble, rehearsing a varied repertoire and performing in the Berklee Performance Center.
Faculty clinics: Berklee faculty will host clinics focusing on career skills, performance techniques, and a diverse array of styles.
Jam sessions: Each night, current Berklee students, faculty, and summer program students get together for jam sessions organized to focus on different styles (e.g., old-time, swing, free improvisation, classical, etc.).
Below is a sample of a typical day in the program.
Time
Event
9:00 a.m.–9:50 a.m.
Breakfast
10:00 a.m.–11:50 a.m.
Small Ensemble or Theory-in-Action and Style Labs
12:00 p.m.–12:50 p.m.
Faculty Clinic
1:00 p.m.–1:50 p.m.
Lunch
2:00 p.m.–3:50 p.m.
Small Ensemble or Theory-in-Action and Style Labs
4:00 p.m.–5:20 p.m.
Large Ensemble
5:30 p.m.–7:20 p.m.
Dinner
7:30 p.m.–8:50 p.m.
Concert
9:00 p.m.–10:20 p.m.
Jam Sessions
Schedule subject to change
What are the performance opportunities?
Students have the ability to participate in open jam sessions in various styles each evening.
The program will culminate in final performances Thursday and Friday. Students will perform the repertoire they rehearse in their ensembles.
All performances are free and open to friends and family.
What are the requirements to attend?
All students 15 and older with six months of playing experience are welcome to attend.
After completing your registration, you will be prompted to submit a video link of a solo performance. These links are reviewed by the faculty to place students into the appropriate level classes before arriving to the program. Professional video quality is not required, but your performance should demonstrate your personal best.
Please note: This program has limited capacity. Submission of registration materials alone does not guarantee participation in the program. You will secure your spot by paying in full. When the program capacity has been reached, registrants who have not paid in full will be placed on a waitlist.
What do I need to bring?
Below is a list of items you should be prepared to bring:
Your instrument, rosin, and bow
Writing utensils (pens, pencils, erasers)
A notebook
Staff paper
Spare strings
A metronome
Shoulder rests
Rock stops
Any effects pedals you wish to use in jams or open mic night.
A portable recording device
If you intend to stay in the Berklee residence halls while participating in the program, please also review what to bring for your room on the housing page.
David Wallace is the chair of the String Department at Berklee College of Music. He is an award-winning composer with commissions from the New York Philharmonic and Carnegie Hall.
