In 2005, the School of Music’s string and orchestra programs won national distinction from the American String Teachers Association, the largest organization in the U.S. devoted to the teaching of string instruments.

The programs were named the most exemplary of 28 projects around the country working to turn around the national shortage of string teachers. ASU also performed at the convention’s concluding concert, marking the first time in the event’s history that a university orchestra was asked to do so.

“This event was both a culmination of the past 10 years of hard work and the launching point to the future,” said Timothy Russell, professor of music and director of orchestras at ASU. “We have sent a message to the musical community that ASU ranks high among the nation’s string-playing and teaching institutions—along with the Cleveland Institute of Music, the New England Conservatory and The Eastman School of Music.”

Developed in 2001 with the National School Orchestra Association to alleviate the shortage of qualified, professional string teachers, the ASU string project helps universities build the training component of their music education program and provides opportunities for students to gain teaching experience prior to graduation.

“I regularly receive calls from school districts requesting more string specialists than we have graduates. The string project is helping to meet this critical need with more and better prepared teachers,” said Margaret Schmidt, assistant professor of string music education and project director.

Music education majors teach classes and private lessons to 100 community children each semester. The string project received $10,000 per year for four years for funding to keep tuition affordable for all students.

Roll over dates to see details