Elemental Strings

Created in 2004, Elemental Strings has been part of the Santa Monica community for nearly ten years. Originally created as a program for the Maestro Foundation, Elemental Strings became a separate 501c3 nonprofit organization in 2010.

What makes Elemental Strings different from other youth orchestra programs?

• Our students are in 4th and 5th grade. While most youth orchestra programs focus on older, more experienced players, our goal is to capture the hearts of the youngest players, and keep them interested and excited about playing their instruments.
• Our low student-to-teacher ratio makes it possible for all participants to receive personalized attention with our expert staff. Each rehearsal consists of one hour of large ensemble, and one hour of sectional time with a smaller group of students.
• Our students learn to play without a conductor during the chamber music unit each spring, building their confidence and skills as collaborators and musicians.

 

We currently offer 3 programs for 4th and 5th grade music students:

1. Elemental Strings Orchestras
2. Elemental Band 
3. Prelude Program, a beginning string program for 4th grade students with no previous experience

We also foster the Mentor Program which partners current students with talented musicians from Santa Monica High School who provide free private lessons for our students.