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 12-June 16
Check-in Time
June 12, 7 - 9 AM
Move-out
June 16, by 7:00 PM
Tuition
$1,295
Housing
$895
Registration fee
$50 (nonrefundable)
 

How to Enroll

  1. Submit your registration.* 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. If you will be age 15 or older by the start of your program and require on-campus accommodations, complete the Residence Hall Contract in the Next Steps tab of your registration portal .

*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.

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. 

Time Event
9 AM–1 PM Ensembles, Theory, and Style Labs
1 PM–2 PM Lunch
2 PM–6 PM Ensembles
6 PM–7 PM Dinner
7 PM–7:50 PM Master Class
8 PM–8:30 PM Faculty Concert or Presentation
8:35 PM–9:20 PM Jam 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

All students 15 and older are welcome to attend.

Once You've Enrolled

Once you're enrolled visit our Next Steps for Enrolled Students to make sure you have everything you need for your program.

Check your email for important information

  • You should continue to check the email that you used to enroll in the program for important information.
  • You will receive a detailed check-in email with information regarding your assigned arrival location, housing assignment, and a link to view your program schedule one to two weeks prior to the start date of your program.
  • When you arrive on campus, you will receive additional program information to guide you through your program.

What to pack 

  • Your instrument, rosin, bow, and any necessary accessories
  • A tuner, metronome, and portable recording device (possibly on your phone)
  • A notebook, staff paper, and pencil
  • Spare strings
  • Any effect pedals you wish to use in jam sessions
  • With the exception of pianists and drummers, students are expected to bring their instruments to all Summer Programs. Review our list of instruments and gear to bring to your program in this knowledge base article.
  • If you are staying on campus, you can reference this packing list with any additional items you’ll need while attending your program.