Illinois State University String Project
The award-winning Illinois State University String Project is an after-school music program that offers low-cost instruction on stringed instruments to children in third to eighth grade. The program supports existing public school string programs and provides a string education to children who are homeschooled or enrolled in schools where no string program is available.
Classes
Build technical, musical, and collaborative skills in a fun and friendly environment.
Summer Camp
Enhance your skills and play in a string orchestra during the summer.
Workshops
Develop your musical skills in a joyful and supportive environment.
Prospective Teaching Assistants
Gain valuable teacher training experience as an ISU string major by serving as a teaching assistant.
Join the String Project
Spring 2026 Important Dates
All dates are subject to change.
- Wednesday, January 21: Audition Day for Sinfonia and new students with prior experience, Julian Hall rooms TBA
- Monday, January 26: First day of classes (all classes)
- Sunday, February 8, 1 p.m.: Honors Recital, Kemp Recital Hall
- Monday, February 16: No classes
- Monday March 9-Friday March 13: No classes, Illinois State University Spring Break
- Monday, April 20, 7 p.m.: Sinfonia side by side with ISU Philharmonia Orchestra, Center for the Performing Arts Concert Hall
- Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m.: Spring Concert (all students), Center for the Performing Arts Concert Hall
- Wednesday, May 6, 6:30 p.m.: Solo Recitals (for students enrolled in private lessons), Cook Hall Room 308
Support the String Project
Donations help our program in a variety of ways, including providing participant scholarships and loaner instruments, teacher training opportunities, and scholarships that help offset the cost of tuition for ISU students.
Join our Supporters
We would like to recognize these granting agencies, businesses, and donors who have recently contributed to the Illinois State String Project. Thank you!
Get to Know Us
The ISU String Project began in 2001 with the support of the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts and a major grant from the American String Teachers Association. The ISU String Project was named the 2013 National String Project of the Year and is a member of the National String Project Consortium, an organization committed to the development and growth of string education across the nation.
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Get in Touch
For more information email stringproject@IllinoisState.edu