For students in Grades 4-6

Cottage Grove School String Program

Cottage Grove School offers beginning string instruction to any interested fourth or fifth grade students.  Learning a musical Instrument at this time will aid in developing a myriad of important skills for your child.  Not only can string instruction encourage self discipline, confidence and teamwork, but it also can promote a deeper understanding of other cultures, encourage creativity and self expression, develop discernment in listening and paying attention to details, reach students who might have difficulties in other subjects in school, help improve students' achievement in other subjects, and bring joy and pleasure out of the art of music making.

Beginning students are given the option is playing the violin, viola or cello.  Students enrolled in the string program need to provide their own instruments, most often through rental.  A limited number of instruments are available for a minimal fee for those students who do not have other means to pay rental fees. 

Learning a musical instrument takes patience, commitment and a positive attitude both on the part of the parents and the student.  Families should discuss enrollment thoroughly with the intention of it also being a yearly commitment.  Keep in mind- learning the first steps (i.e. holding the instrument: reading the music; playing together...) takes time and must be mastered.  Therefore patience pays off during the first few months.  Student progress is a combination of consistent practice determination and feeling encouraged and supported by family and school.