Strings

SIGNATURE PROGRAMS

STRINGS

The shade of the lower school’s majestic banyan trees serves as a canopy for a host of activities, many of which feel magical through the eyes of young learners. The iconic branches and steadfast roots have doubled as set designs for picnics, story time, and strings practice. On any given school day, passersby can hear the joyful melody of violins floating skyward as strings students practice their instruments underneath the trees’ protective shade. This natural backdrop serves as the perfect counterpoint to the staccato rhythm produced by our eager young melophiles.

Beginning in kindergarten, Benjamin students can participate in the School’s Strings Program. This signature program, beginning at age six and culminating with graduation, has been part of the curriculum for the past two decades.

Hundreds of students have been taught to play the violin — and, more importantly, taught a love for music — during their early years at Benjamin. Many of those students have gone on to play a string instrument at the middle and high school levels and beyond.

The program not only teaches students how to read and perform music, but reinforces self-discipline, concentration, and decision-making. Our youngest strings students first learn how to read notes, count time and sound, and how to play together. Students build self-esteem and confidence as they travel through the program.

As students progress through the curriculum, they learn different arrangements and weekly topics. Each grade level enjoys a showcase and various musical performances throughout the year.

Dr. Nicholas Lockey, upper school music teacher, says his music students are not only immensely talented, but good role models. One such student is senior Julia Lubarsky who, says Lockey, has been playing the viola since middle school.

“The viola has been an important part of how she has chosen to identify herself, and she is a good example of the well-rounded person we hope our students will become,” said Lockey.

From roots to wings, our faculty and staff plant the seeds of music education and appreciation, and watch them blossom into a finely honed craft during students’ time at Benjamin.