Lillian Rauch Beginning Strings Program

Sponsored by the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Lillian Rauch Beginning Strings Program is to increase access to string instruction for underserved students. Key objectives of the project are: to provide string instrument instruction free of charge, to nurture and develop students’ creative talents, and to prepare students for challenging opportunities in music and life. The secondary goal, which has the potential to positively impact music education in Greensboro and the state of North Carolina, is to provide music education majors with the opportunity to explore and develop as teachers in a diverse setting.

HISTORY

The Lillian Rauch Beginning Strings Program (LRBS) was founded by the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra in 2000. In 2008, the partnership expanded to include the University of North Carolina Greensboro. The program provides string instruction to students in grades 4-5 at Clara J. Peck Elementary and Caesar Cone Elementary schools. Both schools serve diverse student populations with 99% of students qualifying for free and reduced lunch. Participation is voluntary and enrollment ranges between 80 and 100 students annually. Students who enroll receive lessons during the school day twice per week in a group setting. UNCG Graduate students assisted by UNCG preservice teachers provide the instruction to the elementary students.

PARTNERS

The Lillian Rauch Beginning Strings Program is currently possible through the joint efforts of the University of North Carolina Greensboro, the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra, the Clara J. Peck Elementary School, and the Caesar Cone Elementary School. Program directors, Dr. Rebecca MacLeod – Professor of Music Education at UNCG and Mr. Peter Zlotnick – Education Manager for the GSO, work together to create a sustainable string outreach program that provides elementary students with the opportunity to study a string instrument.

NEWS AND EVENTS