Global String Program

Boston
Ages 15+
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 which may include folk, jazz, bluegrass, classical, Pop, R&B, old-time, Celtic, World Music and more. Master your technique on violin, viola, cello, mandolin, harp, banjo, and more. Discover new musical styles and techniques under close guidance.
Dates
June 24-June 28
Check-in Time
Coming Soon
Move-out
2024-06-28, 7:00 PM
Tuition
$1,295
Housing
$895
Registration fee
$50 (nonrefundable)
 

How to Enroll

  1. Submit your registration by May 1.* Begin by submitting your registration online. If applicable, you may need to submit additional supporting materials.
  2. Make your tuition payment by May 1.* All programs have limited capacity, so be sure to complete your full tuition payment to reserve your space in the program.
  3. Request housing. Students who are 15 years of age or older by the start of their Boston-based program are eligible to stay in on-campus housing. If you meet the eligibility requirements and have indicated that you would like to request on-campus housing, please revisit your registration portal and submit a Residence Hall Agreement.

*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.

Curriculum

As a participant in the Global String Program, you’ll become a part of Berklee’s thriving and creative string community 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, performing varied repertoire 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, pop, rock, R&B, etc.).  
Schedule

Below is a sample of a typical day in the program. 

TimeEvent
9 AM–1 PMEnsembles, Theory, and Style Labs
1 PM–2 PMLunch
2 PM–6 PMEnsembles
6 PM–7 PMDinner
7 PM–7:50 PMMaster Class
8 PM–8:30 PMFaculty Concert or Presentation
8:35 PM–9:20 PMJam Sessions

Schedule subject to change

Performance Opportunities

Students have the ability to participate in open jam sessions in various styles each evening. 

The program will culminate in final performances on the last day of the program. Students will perform the repertoire they rehearse in their ensembles. 

Requirements

General Requirements

All students 15 and older are welcome to attend.

Participants must possess a proficient level of English to enroll in this program. We do not require proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) as part of the enrollment or application process; however, you are expected to have a sufficient command of the English language to understand class material and assignments.

Required Materials

  • Your instrument, rosin, bow, and any necessary accessories
  • Tuner, metronome, and portable recording device (possibly on your phone)
  • Notebook
  • Staff paper
  • Pencil
  • Spare strings
  • Any effect pedals you wish to use in jam sessions
Once You've Enrolled

The Berklee Summer Programs Team is excited that you've taken the first step! Now that you've enrolled, here's what to know, to be sure you're prepared before and after you check in for the experience of a lifetime.

What to do first?

Complete These Tasks by June

Prepare to Arrive and Check In

Access the Summer Programs Help Center

Explore some of these top articles from the Summer Programs Help Center.